The proposed EU Kids Act may impact single-player PC games on Steam, adding age verification requirements.
Today’s significant story pertains to potential regulatory changes in the European Union that could impact how single-player games are accessed on platforms like Steam. According to a report from Rock Paper Shotgun, new draft legislation known as the EU Kids Act is being proposed by the European Commission. This draft seeks to impose a tiered system for under-15s’ access to online services, including video games, which might extend requirements for mandatory age verification to single-player games if they are accessed via online platforms like Steam. While details remain scant and the draft is not yet law, this move indicates a shift towards more stringent age-related content control in digital spaces.
Linux Gaming Gains
On the Linux gaming front, a couple of interesting developments have been reported by GamingOnLinux. Wube Software has released a full ARM64 Linux port of the popular simulation game Factorio. This update is especially significant for players utilizing the Steam Frame, potentially expanding where and how the game can be played. Furthermore, the upcoming alpha launch of EVE Vanguard, an extraction shooter, promises support for Linux, addressing a gap in genre availability on SteamOS platforms.
Independent and Modding News
Indie games continue to thrive with innovative takes on various genres. Rock Paper Shotgun highlights Tokyo Walled City, an indie immersive sim from Grim Ronin combining cyberpunk aesthetics with elements of stealth and survival horror. This game might appeal to those pining for a new Deus Ex as it crafts a similar experience in a unique setting.
For fans of the unique, Keep Driving, a tractor-battling, road trip RPG, is slated to receive official mod support via the Steam Workshop later this month. As reported by Rock Paper Shotgun, this addition is expected to breathe new life into the game by allowing players to customize and expand their experience.
These stories collectively suggest an interesting intersection of regulation and innovation in the PC gaming landscape. Players can look forward to new ways to engage with existing titles and potential changes to how they access games in the future.
