Steam, the leading digital storefront for PC gaming, is facing mounting criticism from developers who allege that the platform’s moderation policies are failing to protect them from rampant abuse and bigotry. In a series of candid interviews, creators have shared their experiences with unchecked harassment, particularly targeting marginalised communities, raising urgent questions about the responsibility of platforms in safeguarding their users.
A Toxic Environment for Creators
For many developers, the gaming landscape on Steam has transformed into a battleground where vitriolic reviews and targeted harassment are commonplace. Bri “BlondePizza” Moore, a content creator and Steam curator, encapsulated the sentiment, stating, “Everyone is at one another’s throats all the time in reviews, discussions, forums, anywhere you can possibly find it on Steam.” This toxic atmosphere not only undermines the creativity of developers but also discourages consumers from engaging with the community.
Transgender creators, in particular, have reported a disproportionate amount of abuse. Designer Nathalie Lawhead, who has faced ongoing harassment since alleging sexual assault in 2019, shared her struggles with the platform’s moderation system. “I assumed reporting Steam abuse might have its own issues. But when people suggested that I open a ticket, I did have hope that this would be the way to get it resolved,” she said, only to find her experiences dismissed.
Inadequate Response to Abuse Claims
Despite Steam’s established guidelines prohibiting abusive language and discrimination, many reports of harassment go unchecked. Lawhead’s attempts to remove derogatory reviews—one labelled her a “liar” while another included anti-Semitic remarks—were initially met with indifference. “We aren’t in a position to verify the accuracy of statements made in user reviews,” Steam’s support team reportedly stated, implying that removing such content could be deemed “censorship”.
This lack of action is alarming, especially considering the profound impact that reviews have on a game’s visibility and sales. Developers like Ethan, creator of the horror game *Coven*, have also highlighted the challenges posed by negative campaigns orchestrated by Steam curators. These self-appointed influencers often target games for perceived political stances rather than evaluating them on their merits. “Steam support claimed that off-topic comments didn’t fit their criteria for moderation,” he explained, leaving him frustrated with the platform’s priorities.
A Call for Action
As many developers navigate the difficulties of addressing online harassment, some have taken proactive steps to protect their communities. Phi, the developer behind *Heart of Enya*, echoed the sentiment that the platform’s handling of hate speech is fundamentally flawed, stating, “Hateful comments about individuals are seen as abuse, but targeting groups seems to be welcome speech.”
These developers are now exploring alternative routes to ensure their safety and the safety of their teams, with some even hiring moderators to manage forums that have become toxic. Others, like Mike Rose of No More Robots, have pushed back publicly against harmful comments, using social media as a platform to combat racism and bigotry.
Facing an Uphill Battle
The reality for many developers is that despite the disheartening experiences, Steam remains an indispensable avenue for reaching players. With an average of nearly 42 million concurrent users, its dominance in the market leaves developers with little choice but to endure the harassment they face. “No other storefront has the clout that Steam does,” Lawhead noted, underscoring the difficult position many find themselves in.
As platforms like Steam continue to grapple with their responsibilities, the voices of developers like Lawhead, Moore, and others are becoming increasingly crucial in calling for meaningful change.
Why it Matters
The ongoing issues surrounding moderation on Steam reflect broader societal struggles with online harassment and discrimination. In a space that should foster creativity and connection, the unchecked vitriol directed at developers can have far-reaching consequences not only for the individuals targeted but for the gaming industry as a whole. As the conversation around inclusivity and safety in gaming continues to evolve, it is imperative that platforms take decisive action to create environments where all creators can thrive without fear of harassment.
