Epic Games has lifted the ban on blockchain games in its store, reversing the previous classification of these games as “Adults Only” (AO) by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB).
In a December 19 post on X (formerly Twitter), Epic Games Store announced the return of blockchain games like Gods Unchained and Striker Manager 3, which were previously removed from the marketplace due to their 18 and over rating. The return follows an update to the store’s content policy.
The updated policy now permits products incorporating blockchain technology, provided the publisher signs the Blockchain Addendum and the game adheres to Epic Games Store’s Blockchain Technology guidelines and content guidelines.
Previously, blockchain games were assigned an AO rating by the store solely based on the use of blockchain or non-fungible token (NFT) technology.
Epic Games Store’s move is reflective of broader trends in the gaming industry, as other digital distribution services also take action on blockchain-based content.
In July, Google revised its policy, allowing developers to integrate digital assets, including NFTs, into their apps on Google Play. In 2022, Apple updated its App Store Review Guidelines, establishing new rules regarding NFTs and cryptocurrencies to inform consumers about permissible and prohibited actions for apps.
Governmental institutions are also advancing the adoption of blockchain games with a focus on safety. In October, the French National Assembly enacted the Sorare law, creating a regulatory structure for NFT and crypto games, aiming to prevent them from being classified as gambling. The law is currently under review by the Constitutional Council.
These initiatives may align with optimistic forecasts for the future of the Web3 gaming industry. Future Market Insights predicts the U.S. Web3 gaming sector to attain a market share of $14,255.4 million by 2033, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.3%.
