YouTube has announced a new policy update that will impose stricter age restrictions on certain gaming videos containing graphic violence. The new rules will take effect on November 17 and will block users under 18 and those not signed in from accessing specific types of violent content.
Realistic violence scenes to face new restrictions
Under the updated policy, gaming videos showing realistic human characters involved in mass violence against civilians or torture will be restricted to adult viewers only. Unauthenticated users will also be unable to view such content. YouTube says decisions will be based on factors like the duration of the violent scene, whether it’s zoomed in, and how realistic the characters appear.
Company spokesperson Boot Bullwinkle stated that age restrictions will apply to violent scenes that are either prolonged or shown in close-up. Creators may avoid these restrictions by changing how they play the game or blurring the violent elements in their videos.
Previously, most video game content and animations were exempt from YouTube’s age-restriction rules, even when they included violence. With this new update, realistic violent scenes will now fall under the age-gated category.
The changes also extend to gambling-related content. Creators will no longer be allowed to direct viewers to online gambling involving in-game cosmetics, NFTs, or digital assets.
YouTube had already restricted gambling content for users under 18 earlier this year, and the latest update adds social casino content to the list of age-restricted categories. YouTube says the new policy is part of its efforts to protect younger audiences and ensure a safer platform environment.
