Indie video game marketplace, Itch.io, has recently made a bold decision in an effort to create a more family-friendly platform for its users. The company announced this week that it has “deindexed” adult and not-safe-for-work (NSFW) games, removing them from its browse and search pages. This move has sparked a lot of conversation and has received both praise and criticism from the gaming community.
Itch.io, founded in 2013, has always prided itself on being a platform for independent game developers to showcase their unique and innovative creations. With over 100,000 games available, Itch.io has become a go-to place for gamers looking for something new and different. However, the platform has also been known for hosting a significant number of adult and NSFW games, which has raised concerns for some users.
In a statement released by Itch.io, the company explained that the decision to deindex adult and NSFW games was made in an effort to make the platform more accessible for everyone, including families and young players. The statement also mentioned that this change aligns with the company’s community guidelines, which prohibit content that is “illegal, harmful, or offensive.” By removing these games from the browse and search pages, Itch.io hopes to create a more welcoming and inclusive environment for all its users.
This move has garnered mixed reactions from the gaming community. Some have praised Itch.io for taking a stand against content that they deem inappropriate, while others have criticized the decision as censorship and an attack on artistic expression. However, it is important to note that the deindexed games are still available on the platform, they simply will not appear in the browse and search functions.
Itch.io’s decision has also raised questions about the role of platforms in regulating content. With the rise of independent game developers and the accessibility of self-publishing, there has been a surge of controversial and NSFW content in the gaming industry. Itch.io’s move has sparked a conversation about the responsibility of platforms in controlling what content is available to their users.
Despite the criticism, this decision by Itch.io is a step in the right direction for creating a safer and more inclusive gaming community. By deindexing adult and NSFW games, the platform is not only protecting younger users from potentially harmful content, but it is also sending a message that it values the comfort and well-being of its diverse user base.
Moreover, this change is not just about creating a family-friendly environment, but also about supporting and promoting independent game developers who may feel overshadowed by more controversial titles. By removing adult and NSFW games from the browse and search pages, Itch.io is giving other developers a chance to showcase their work and gain recognition.
Itch.io has always been a platform that celebrates creativity and diversity in the gaming industry. This decision to deindex adult and NSFW games may be seen as a bold move, but it is a testament to the platform’s commitment to creating a safe and welcoming space for all its users. Itch.io’s decision is not about censorship, but rather about creating a more positive and inclusive gaming community.
In conclusion, the recent announcement by Itch.io to deindex adult and NSFW games has sparked a conversation about the role of platforms in regulating content and creating a safe gaming environment. While there may be differing opinions on this decision, it is a positive step towards promoting diversity and inclusivity in the gaming industry. Itch.io’s commitment to creating a platform for independent game developers to thrive is commendable, and we can only hope that this move will encourage other platforms to follow suit. Let’s continue to support and celebrate the creativity and diversity in the gaming community.
