YouTube announced it will start age-restricting more videos that show graphic violence in video games.
The new rule will take effect on November 17th and will block accounts under 18 and signed-out users from watching games that show realistic human characters in violent scenes, including mass violence or torture.
YouTube will decide whether to restrict a video based on how long the violent scenes last, whether they are the main focus, and if the characters look like real humans. The policy does not clearly say if it applies to games like Grand Theft Auto or Call of Duty missions that have realistic violence.
A YouTube spokesperson said content may be age-restricted if it is long-lasting or zoomed in. Creators can avoid restrictions by changing how they show violent scenes or by blurring or hiding the violence.
This change builds on YouTube’s current rules, which already allow age restrictions on videos with dramatized violence involving torture, serious injuries, or bloody deaths, while generally allowing fictional or game content.
The update also limits creators from linking to online gambling that uses digital items like game skins, cosmetics, or NFTs. YouTube had already banned mentioning unapproved gambling services in March and blocked approved gambling content for under-18 users. Now, social casino content will also be age-restricted.
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YouTube says these updates are part of its effort to protect younger viewers and maintain a safe and responsible platform.
