Valve Prohibits Distribution of Blockchain and NFT-Based Games on Steam.

Valve’s Steamworks Update: Blockchain-Based Games Face Restrictions

Valve has recently unveiled an updated version of its documentation, Steamworks, bringing along a notable addition that has stirred discussions within the gaming community. A fresh entry under the “What Not To Distribute” section explicitly prohibits applications built on blockchain technology.

For indie developer SpacePirate, known for crafting games Rooted in NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens), this announcement has sparked considerable concern and debate. The developer posits that Valve’s decision might be driven by a reluctance to endorse in-game items that hold tangible real-world value. The news rapidly disseminated across the digital landscape, igniting fervent discussions among gamers and developers alike.

Conversely, Epic Games has taken a different stance. The company has affirmed its openness to blockchain and cryptocurrency-supported games, offering a glimmer of hope for developers in this space. However, there are caveats. Epic Games stipulates that such games must comply with financial regulations, adding another layer of complexity to the situation. As a result, players engaged in cryptocurrency transactions may find their access to beloved titles via the Steam store restricted.

This divergence in approach between two industry giants underscores the complexities surrounding blockchain integration in gaming and hints at the ongoing struggle to navigate the regulatory landscape while fostering innovation.