Nintendo's recently updated Content Guidelines have significantly tightened restrictions on content creators, potentially leading to bans for violations. This stricter approach follows incidents of content removal and aims to address inappropriate material.

Increased Enforcement of Nintendo's Content Guidelines

Nintendo's September 2nd update to its "Game Content Guidelines for Online Video & Image Sharing Platforms" expands its enforcement powers. Beyond DMCA takedowns for illegal or infringing content, Nintendo can now proactively remove content violating its guidelines and even ban creators from sharing future Nintendo-related content. This represents a significant escalation from previous limitations.

The updated guidelines clarify prohibited content, adding examples such as:

• Content that disrupts multiplayer gameplay (e.g., intentional sabotage).
• Graphic, explicit, harmful, or offensive content, including insulting, obscene, or disturbing material.

These changes are likely a response to past content takedowns, potentially spurred by an incident involving a Splatoon 3 content creator.

Splatoon 3 Content Removal Incident

A Splatoon 3 video by Liora Channel, featuring interviews with female players discussing dating experiences within the game, was removed by Nintendo. Liora Channel stated on Twitter (X) that they would avoid creating similar sexually suggestive content in the future.

Protecting Young Players

Nintendo's stricter stance is understandable given concerns about predatory behavior in online games, particularly those targeting younger audiences. Reports of abuse and exploitation in games like Roblox highlight the need for proactive measures to safeguard children. By clamping down on inappropriate content, Nintendo aims to prevent its games from being associated with harmful activities.