Key Takeaways
- Steam update policy requires developers to disclose kernel-level anti-cheat software with the goal of transparency and user trust.
- This update aligns with Steam's recent policy changes.
- Steam's efforts to keep up with technological advancements also include AI-generated content rules to adapt to industry changes.
new steam The updated policy was released on October 30th, requiring developers who use kernel-level anti-cheat software to explicitly disclaim it in their stores. Steam is the world's largest platform for purchasing PC games online. In many cases, this means that developers who want to sell their games must follow all the rules set by the company.
Over the past few weeks, the platform has made several significant changes to its policies, many of which have angered players, such as claims that Steam games are simply purchased licenses. With hundreds of millions of current users and millions more joining our platforms each year, transparency and clarity are essential to prevent backlash and other undesirable outcomes.
relevant
Steam Breaks Another Major Player Milestone
Steam set a new record for concurrent online users, not long after setting the previous milestone, thanks to popular games and recent sales.
A recent Steam policy update posted by the company on October 30th states that any developer working on a game that uses kernel-level anti-cheat software must post a disclaimer about it on their store. In its most basic form, kernel-level anti-cheat software operates inside a player's PC and attempts to identify dishonest behavior by examining various files while monitoring in-game activity. This may make some people feel uncomfortable and curious about privacy aspects. What the software is accessing.
Steam updates require developers to specify kernel-level anti-cheat features.
2024 has been a huge year for the platform, with Steam reaching a record of over 38 million online users in September. This is an impressive achievement and shows just how popular Steam is. The reasons for the recent policy update requiring developers to include kernel-level anti-cheat software disclaimers are not yet known. However, it wouldn't be far-fetched to assume that this might be to avoid problems with players who feel the software is too invasive.
The platform's kernel-level anti-cheat disclaimer requirements aren't the only thing changing, as Steam announced some rules for AI-generated content in games in June of this year. This proves that the PC gaming giant is likely trying to keep up with the latest technology and the opportunities and threats it represents.
Steam sometimes removes controversial or older titles, but often keeps others as well. Therefore, the platform stated that its kernel-level anti-cheat software disclaimer rules will retroactively apply to older games as well. It is yet to be seen whether this will increase player trust in both Steam and the developers it works with, or if it will have a negative impact on several titles with the new disclaimer.
steam
Steam is a digital video game store and program developed by Valve that allows gamers to purchase, play, and modify titles through one convenient program.
- brand
- valve
- original release date
- September 12, 2003
- Original MSRP (USD)
- Not applicable
- weight
- Not applicable
