Mastercard Denies It Pressured Steam, Itch.io to Delist Adult Games

Mastercard has refuted claims that it pressured game platforms like Steam and itch.io to delist adult games. In a statement, the company asserted that it has not mandated any restrictions on activities on these game creator sites and platforms. The allegations arose after both Steam and itch.io announced changes to their policies, with Steam banning the sale of "sexually explicit" games and itch.io restricting "adult/mature" content. While some speculated that Mastercard's influence was behind these decisions, the payment processor has firmly denied any involvement. Mastercard emphasized that it is committed to ensuring a safe and inclusive digital ecosystem, but it maintains that it has not directly required or influenced the delisting of any specific game content. The statement aims to clarify the company's position and refute the claims of external pressure on game platforms to restrict adult-oriented games.