14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft promises that the Windows Store will provide access to up to 100,000 apps by February 2013, but it seems that the Redmond-based technology company is planning to block 18+ rated games.
GamesIndustry.biz writes that games rated above PEGI 16 in Europe or Mature in the United States won’t be listed in the Windows Store, as Microsoft has some very strict rules when it comes to the apps listed there.
First of all, the Redmond-based technology company says that “your app must not contain adult content, and metadata must be appropriate for everyone. Apps with a rating over PEGI 16, ESRB MATURE, or that contain content that would warrant such a rating, are not allowed.”
While these guidelines might make a lot of sense for some users, others are outraged by Microsoft’s tactic and call for a change in Windows Store’s regulations.
Microsoft has already confirmed for Kotaku that games submitted to the Windows Store would have to obey all these rules, although users expect some exceptions in the case of large publishers.
“No, you cannot distribute Windows Store apps without going through the Windows Store. The exception to this is for enterprise apps. Developers can, however, create and offer desktop apps the same way they always have – through their own site or distribution point,” Microsoft was quoted as saying.
Even if the Windows Store does not allow the purchase of 18+ rated games, publishers can still distribute their games in the traditional way, via their website or on a disc that could be then used to install the necessary files.
Unsurprisingly though, this is one of the factors that could keep many gamers away from the new Windows 8 operating system.