Japanese adult game developers are facing unexpected financial trouble as local banks have started blocking their payments from Steam. The issue was highlighted by Taro Yamada, a Japanese politician, who raised concerns about the situation on Twitter/X and YouTube.
According to Yamada, several developers are unable to transfer their earnings from Steam’s U.S. bank to Japanese accounts. Both the Financial Services Agency of Japan (FSA) and the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) have confirmed the issue, raising alarm among creators.
Why Are Banks Blocking Payments?
During a hearing, the FSA stated that the decision wasn’t based solely on the adult nature of these games. Instead, banks described it as a “comprehensive decision” influenced by laws such as the Prevention of Transfer of Criminal Proceeds Act and the Foreign Trade and Exchange Act. However, the vague explanation has led to skepticism.
Creators Left Without Payment
Yamada has questioned this decision, arguing that as long as transactions follow legal procedures, there’s no reason to block them. He is now working with FSA and METI to push for a resolution that ensures developers can access their earnings.
This isn’t the first time Japanese creators have faced financial restrictions. In December 2024, Visa payments were temporarily suspended on dating site Aellune, and other industries, including bishoujo game developers and fan art platforms, have encountered similar setbacks.
Since anime and gaming are considered key economic contributors in Japan, these banking restrictions could have broader consequences. It remains to be seen whether the government will intervene to support the affected developers.
Source: Automaton