Indie gaming platform itch.io has officially resumed indexing free adult NSFW games after temporarily removing content due to restrictions from payment processors, notably Stripe. This move comes after significant confusion and concerns among creators whose games had been abruptly delisted in recent weeks.
In a statement released today, itch.io administrator leafo outlined the steps creators must follow to have their free adult-oriented content re-indexed. Currently, games eligible for re-indexing must explicitly select the “No Payments” option on their project dashboard. Developers who previously used individually priced files must be aware that selecting this option converts their paid content into freely accessible files.
Itch.io explained that the temporary delisting and subsequent re-indexing stemmed from Stripe’s decision to cease supporting adult content “designed for sexual gratification,” citing constraints imposed by their banking partners. Stripe, which has been providing card payment processing for itch.io for over a decade, expressed hope that it may support adult content again in the future.
According to Stripe’s official statement provided through itch.io, “Stripe is currently unable to support sexually explicit content due to restrictions placed on them by their banking partners, despite card networks generally supporting adult content (with the appropriate registrations).”
Leafo reassured the community that itch.io is actively engaging with alternative payment processors to ensure stability for creators whose livelihoods depend on the platform. This change aims to prevent future disruptions similar to what was experienced during Stripe’s policy enforcement.
Additionally, itch.io announced plans to implement a new “content warnings” system specifically designed for NSFW-tagged games. Developers will soon be required to provide content warnings to maintain indexing status, with further details expected in an upcoming update.
For now, paid adult games remain in limbo, pending further discussions with potential payment processors. Itch.io aims to cautiously reintroduce paid content to secure the platform’s sustainability for a diverse range of creators.
How do you feel about itch.io’s handling of NSFW games? Let us know in the comments below, and stay tuned to Noisy Pixel for further updates.