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YouTube has announced new restrictions on videos that include graphic violence in games or gambling-related content. The platform says these changes are meant to create a safer environment for users and will mainly focus on three areas online casino content, social casino content, and graphic gaming content.
YouTube Tightens Rules Around Gambling
YouTube already bans videos that promote unverified or illegal gambling websites and apps. But under the new update, the platform will now apply even stricter rules. This includes limiting content related to social casinos, skin gambling, and NFTs.
The new policy update will take effect on November 17.
Rob from Team YouTube explained the change by saying, “We’re expanding our enforcement to include more forms of online gambling that involve digital goods with real-world value, such as video game skins, cosmetics, and NFTs.”
This move comes as global regulators are paying closer attention to gambling in video games. For example, Spain recently launched a campaign against loot boxes, and similar measures are being discussed in Brazil, the UK, and Singapore.
Age Limits for Social Casino Content
Another big update is that videos showing or promoting social casino platforms will now be age-restricted. These are apps or websites that simulate gambling, often using fake or dual-currency systems.
In the United States, several states have recently started taking action against these platforms. California, where YouTube’s headquarters are located, has passed a new bill banning social casino apps that use real money or mimic real gambling systems. Governor Gavin Newsom has already signed the law, which will go into effect at the beginning of next year.
Meanwhile, Google has also started allowing gambling ads in Missouri ahead of the state’s launch of legal sports betting this December.
Graphic Violence in Gaming to Face New Limits
Alongside gambling restrictions, YouTube is also introducing rules for graphic gaming content. Videos showing realistic violence, torture scenes, or mass attacks against unarmed characters will now face age restrictions.
This could have an impact on esports content, especially for popular FPS titles such as Counter-Strike 2 and Call of Duty, which often include intense or realistic battle scenes.
YouTube clarified that older videos uploaded before November 17 may be restricted or removed, but creators won’t receive a strike for those. However, creators can edit their videos using YouTube’s trim or blur tools to comply with the new policy.
If any video gets restricted, YouTube will notify the creator via email, and they will have the right to appeal the decision.
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