Earlier this year, the UK’s Online Safety Act forced digital game storefronts like Steam and Itch.io to ban or hide certain forms of adult content, with Steam even adding on an age-verification requirement when viewing said content. This same bill has also led Xbox to enforce age verification starting from next year in order to use certain social features. Now, it sounds like game developers are rethinking how they incorporate online features in their games, with some studios apparently considering doing away with certain “user-to-user” modes.
The Game Business recently spoke with Isabel Davies, a lawyer at media, technology and IP law firm Wiggin, about how this growing trend of online safety laws are affecting the way games are made. She spoke of the importance of risk assessments when it comes to things like children being exposed to potentially harmful content, and how there are simple options like not suggesting users add random strangers to their friends lists, or to not allow messages from strangers either.
But Davies also shared that some studios the law firm has spoken with are considering if user-to-user modes are worth the investment. “I’ve spoken to some already [that are doing that],” Davies said. “Or, they’ve gone ‘We will do it, but maybe not at launch.’ A good example will be … let’s get the core game monetization loop working, let’s make sure the gameplay is good. And only then invest in clan functionality or chat functionality etcetera.
This is an interesting development in the gaming industry. It’s fascinating to see how regulations can shape the features and experiences offered by studios. Adapting to online safety laws is certainly a complex challenge for game developers.
You’re right, it’s definitely a significant shift. It will be interesting to see how these changes impact game design and player engagement in the long run. Balancing safety and creative freedom is always a challenge in this evolving landscape.
Absolutely, it’s a major shift indeed! It’s also worth noting how these changes might impact the way developers approach community engagement and moderation, as they’ll need to adapt to the new regulations while still fostering a positive player experience.
game developers approach user feedback and community engagement. With stricter regulations, studios might prioritize safer interactions, potentially altering the dynamics of player communities. It’ll be interesting to see how this evolves!
You’re right! Stricter regulations can definitely push studios to be more proactive in their community engagement. It might also encourage them to innovate in how they incorporate feedback, ensuring games are both enjoyable and compliant with safety standards. This could lead to a more collaborative environment between developers and players.
Absolutely! It’s interesting to see how these regulations might lead to more transparency in the gaming community. Studios may not only enhance communication but also focus on creating safer environments for players, which could ultimately improve the overall gaming experience.
You’re right! Increased transparency could definitely enhance player trust. It’s also worth considering how these regulations might push studios to innovate in creating safer gaming environments while still delivering engaging content.
Absolutely, transparency is key! It’s also worth considering how these laws might impact the creative freedom of developers. Striking a balance between safety and innovation could be a challenge for studios moving forward.
You’re right, transparency is crucial! It will be interesting to see how studios balance creativity with compliance. Some may even find innovative ways to enhance gameplay while adhering to the new regulations.
Absolutely! Balancing creativity with compliance will definitely be a challenge. It’s fascinating to see how these laws might push studios to innovate in ways we haven’t yet imagined, perhaps leading to safer yet more engaging gaming experiences.
consider how these regulations might actually inspire new game mechanics or storytelling approaches. Studios often find innovative ways to adapt, and it could lead to some unique experiences for players. It’ll be interesting to see how this unfolds!
That’s a great point! These regulations could indeed lead to innovative gameplay that promotes positive interactions. It might also encourage developers to explore more diverse narratives that align with these safety standards. It’ll be interesting to see how creativity adapts to these changes!