.png)
Gaming content has shifted far beyond simple playthroughs. Modern channels mix strategy, monetisation, streaming culture, and mechanics that often resemble gambling—whether through loot boxes, NFT trades, or skin markets.
In parallel, concerns about the accessibility of hyper-realistic violence have intensified, pushing platforms toward stricter oversight. A high-profile example came earlier this year, when Balatro University—a channel discussing strategy for the roguelike hit Balatro—was mistakenly removed for “gambling content” despite containing no real-money features.
The incident triggered a wider debate, later supported by a Guardian investigation confirming that YouTube’s systems were already proactively flagging content with perceived gambling elements. Combined with regulatory pressure across the US, EU, and Asia, the move toward more restrictive policies became inevitable.
YouTube’s 2025 Rules Explained
1. Expanded Definition of Gambling Content
YouTube now considers gambling-related not only traditional casino content but also games or digital mechanics involving items with real monetary value—including skins, NFTs, and cosmetic items used in betting or reward-based gameplay.
Creators producing content around these mechanics must comply with the same standards applied to conventional gambling channels.
2. 18+ Restrictions for “Social Casino” Content
Even when no real money is involved, simulated casino experiences will be age-gated. YouTube emphasises that “practice” gambling can normalise risky behaviour among minors.
3. Stricter Age-Gating for Violent Gaming Videos
Graphic violence, mass harm to non-combat characters, and torture scenes will now be restricted to adult audiences. Moderation will focus heavily on realism, visual emphasis, and duration—not just on the mere presence of violent elements.
What Creators, Advertisers, and Publishers Need to Know About YouTube’s Updated Policy
For Creators
- Apply 18+ labels where required and edit or blur sensitive segments to avoid demonetisation or removal.
- Expect reduced monetisation and visibility for age-gated videos.
- Conduct periodic audits of back catalogues, thumbnails, and titles to prevent unintentional violations.
- Review mechanics such as loot boxes, NFT trades, and item marketplaces, which may fall within the new gambling scope.
- Ensure appropriate tagging and reconsider monetisation strategies ahead of the November update.
For Platforms and Advertisers
- Prepare for tighter moderation, including enhanced algorithmic detection and more frequent manual reviews.
- Advertisers may increasingly request compliance assurances before partnering with creators operating in sensitive areas.
For Game Publishers and Developers
- Titles featuring NFTs, loot boxes, or gambling-like systems should anticipate reduced visibility on YouTube.
- Marketing strategies may need to shift—relying solely on YouTube as a discovery channel carries higher risk under the new age-gating regime.
- Publishers dependent on real-value digital assets should reassess promotion strategies to mitigate potential drops in reach.
Conclusion
YouTube’s 2025 update is part of a broader cultural and regulatory shift toward responsible, age-conscious digital ecosystems. For creators, advertisers, and publishers, adapting early will help maintain trust, reduce moderation risk, and protect long-term audience engagement.
As YouTube highlighted, these changes reinforce its “ongoing commitment to protecting young users and fostering a responsible ecosystem”—and for the industry, they signal a new era of content accountability.
This piece was originally crafted by Futura Digital’s associates for PocketGamer.
