Steam Clears the Air on Anti-Cheat

Valve has taken a significant step towards greater transparency in the gaming industry. Starting now, developers will be required to clearly state the kernel-level anti-cheat software used in their games directly on the Steam Store page.

This move is a direct response to both developer and player feedback. Developers have expressed a desire for a standardized way to inform players about anti-cheat measures, while players have been increasingly vocal about wanting more information on the software running on their systems.

What Does This Mean for Gamers?

• Clearer Information: You’ll be able to see exactly which kernel-level anti-cheat software a game uses, helping you make informed decisions about what you install on your PC.
• Increased Transparency: This move promotes a more open and honest relationship between developers and players.

What Does This Mean for Developers?

• Mandatory Disclosure: All games on Steam, new and old, must now disclose kernel-level anti-cheat usage.
• Optional Disclosure: While not mandatory, Valve strongly encourages developers to disclose client-side and server-side anti-cheat measures as well.

By implementing this change, Valve is taking a proactive approach to addressing player concerns and fostering a more transparent gaming ecosystem.