YouTube is preparing sweeping changes. Starting November 17, the platform will impose age restrictions on videos that portray violence in video games. The new rules will affect minors and users who are not signed in.
The evaluation will consider the length, number, and intensity of violent scenes, as well as whether violence is a central subject of the video.
YouTube has advised creators to conceal or edit out footage that includes blood, torture, and graphic scenes. Whereas the system previously removed only the most extreme clips, the filters will now be much stricter.
The platform says the measure is intended to foster a safer environment for younger viewers.
YouTube also plans to ban the promotion of content tied to digital gambling—whether that’s skins, NFTs, or in‑game betting. Those videos will be age-restricted as well.
The changes have already sparked debate: some call them censorship, others see them as audience protection. How YouTube will ultimately be affected should become clear soon.
Source: iXBT.games