In a recent communication to developers, Leaf Corcoran, the founder of Itch.io, announced a significant shift regarding adult content on the platform. The indie game marketplace will re-index free adult material and introduce a new content warning system. This decision comes in the wake of a comprehensive de-indexing of adult content, a move necessitated by pressure from an anti-pornography lobby group targeting major credit card processors.
Re-Indexing and Payment Processor Challenges
Unlike larger platforms such as Steam, Itch.io operates as a user-generated content hub, allowing creators to publish their work with minimal barriers. However, this flexibility has its drawbacks; the platform was compelled to adopt a blunt approach to content removal when faced with scrutiny from payment processors. The re-indexing of free adult content, which does not involve payment processing, marks a crucial first step in addressing a complex issue that required a more nuanced solution.
As reported earlier this week, Itch.io is actively seeking alternative payment processors that are more amenable to handling adult material. One of its primary payment partners, Stripe, has expressed its own concerns regarding the situation. A spokesperson for Stripe conveyed to Corcoran that the company is “currently unable to support sexually explicit content due to restrictions imposed by their banking partners.” Despite the general support for adult content from card networks, Stripe’s hands are tied under current conditions.
Stripe has indicated a hopeful outlook for the future, stating that it aims to support adult content eventually. However, the company has clarified that it cannot accommodate content “designed for sexual gratification.” This definition poses challenges, as Corcoran noted the potential for ambiguity in determining which materials might be eligible for re-introduction. Nevertheless, he emphasized that Itch.io’s long-term strategy involves integrating one or more new payment processors to mitigate risks associated with the platform’s operations.
The origins of this predicament can be traced back to the Australian lobby group Collective Shout, which recently issued an open letter to major payment processors, including PayPal, Mastercard, and Visa. The letter called for these companies to “demonstrate corporate social responsibility” by ceasing payment processing for platforms like Steam and Itch.io that host similar content.
