Valve Won’t Ban AI-Generated Games on Steam Despite Growing Complaints From Developers

Valve isn’t ready to draw a line against AI-generated games on Steam, despite growing complaints about low-quality releases and AI-powered clones. The company says developers should focus on making better games rather than worrying about which tools others use. However, it acknowledges that Steam’s discovery system needs attention.

Valve says AI tools won’t be banned from Steam

Speaking at Steam Indie Connect in South Korea, Valve’s business team members Tom Giardino and Marc Wilkinson answered developers’ questions about AI-generated games. According to reports, Giardino said Valve doesn’t want to dictate which tools developers should use.

The discussion comes as developers raise concerns about AI making it easier to replicate existing games. One developer reportedly described receiving extortion emails threatening to create AI-generated clones unless they paid. Giardino said he had not previously heard about these cases and encouraged developers to report them to Valve. He also suggested contacting law enforcement over extortion threats.

Valve believes cloning existed before generative AI became widespread. Its advice is to keep adding features, develop a distinctive identity, and build a loyal community. These steps could help original games stand apart from quick copies.

Steam Next Fest’s discovery system is also under scrutiny

Speaking of AI-generated games, Steam Next Fest has attracted complaints about the number of low-quality demos appearing on its front page. Wilkinson explained that the platform initially displays games largely at random during the first two days. Personalized recommendations then begin shaping what players see.

Valve acknowledged that this approach can expose players to low-quality releases. However, the company says it wants to improve Steam’s discovery experience instead of restricting developers based on their tools. A significant number of people are considering the problem, according to reports.

That said, developers shouldn’t expect an immediate AI ban or a new AI-game filter. Valve has not announced either measure. Its current approach focuses on improving discovery while allowing developers to use AI, subject to Steam’s existing content and disclosure requirements.

Source: InvenGlobal | via: TechSpot