Steam Introduces New Age Verification System for UK Users Amid Controversy

Valve’s digital storefront Steam has begun rolling out new age verification measures for users in the United Kingdom, sparking debate among players and developers alike. As of August 29, anyone in the UK who wants to view or purchase titles featuring mature themes—such as explicit violence, adult content, or sexual material—must now verify their age by linking a valid credit card to their account.

The change comes in response to the UK’s Online Safety Act, a set of regulations designed to ensure that minors cannot easily access inappropriate material online. Unlike other companies that require photo ID uploads or third-party verification services, Steam has opted for a comparatively simpler process. UK-based users only need to add a credit card under their name and billing address. Once entered, the system automatically confirms the user’s eligibility to access mature-rated content. Those who already have a card linked to their Steam account will not need to take any further action.

Why the Change Was Implemented

Earlier this year, on July 16, Steam updated its publishing rules to better align with the policies of its payment processors and network partners. The new guidelines prohibit certain types of adult-oriented games from being sold on the platform, resulting in the removal of several niche titles. The latest verification system builds on those changes, ensuring compliance with both international standards and the UK’s stricter online safety regulations.

Other platforms have also made adjustments ahead of the UK’s 2026 deadline. Microsoft, for example, has already begun tightening its Xbox age verification tools, while Discord attempted a photo-based verification system. Interestingly, some users discovered workarounds for Discord’s ID check by exploiting creative tools like Death Stranding 2’s photo mode, highlighting the challenges of enforcing such measures.

Community Backlash and Ongoing Debate

Unsurprisingly, the move has proven controversial. Many players argue that requiring a credit card creates unnecessary barriers for users who may not have one, particularly younger gamers who are still legally allowed to access certain age-restricted content. Online campaigns have emerged criticizing Steam’s reliance on payment processors to dictate publishing standards, with some gamers calling for greater transparency.

On the other hand, some see Valve’s approach as a more privacy-friendly alternative compared to full photo ID checks. By avoiding sensitive ID uploads, Steam may be sidestepping potential risks associated with data collection and security breaches.

Looking Ahead

While the system is now live, it remains to be seen how effective Steam’s new verification process will be in the long term, especially once the UK Online Safety Act goes into full effect in 2026. For now, the update represents a significant shift in how one of the world’s largest PC storefronts handles mature content, setting the stage for further industry-wide discussions about online safety, censorship, and user accessibility.