Valve is implementing new guidelines to increase transparency and accountability for developers selling season passes on Steam. These changes aim to protect consumers from unclear or changing content promises associated with season passes.
The new documentation, first spotted by SteamDB creator Pavel Djundik, outlines specific requirements for developers offering season passes. Valve now requires developers to clearly communicate the content included in each DLC and their respective launch dates. The core message is simple: if a developer cannot provide this level of detail upfront, they should not offer a season pass on Steam.
Season passes typically offer players access to future DLC and bonus content, often bundled with deluxe editions of games. While they provide a convenient way to access future content, they also carry inherent risks for players. Changes or cancellations to planned DLC can leave players in a difficult position, navigating refunds and unclear communication.
Valve’s new guidelines aim to mitigate these risks through enforced transparency. Developers are now required to detail the content of each DLC included in the season pass, providing basic information about what players can expect. Expected release dates or windows must also be disclosed. Critically, at least one piece of DLC must be released before the season pass can be offered for sale.
Furthermore, if DLC included in a season pass is canceled, customers will be offered refunds based on the perceived value of the canceled content. Delays are permitted only once, up to a maximum of three months, although Valve has indicated a willingness to discuss exceptions on a case-by-case basis.
The Steam Deck OLED on a pink background.
These guidelines do not constitute a ban on season passes. Instead, they hold developers accountable for delivering on their promises. Non-compliance can lead to refunds and, in extreme cases, the removal of the season pass from the Steam store.
This move reinforces Valve’s recent pro-consumer initiatives. Previous actions include updates to the Steam Subscriber Agreement, allowing users to sue the company without forced arbitration, improved user review systems prioritizing helpful content over memes, and simplified game sharing features.
Valve logo on a building.
However, Valve also faces criticism regarding the proliferation of extremism and hate speech on its platform. A recent letter from a U.S. senator urged Valve to address issues related to community moderation and guidelines, highlighting the need for improved content moderation practices.
In conclusion, Valve’s new season pass guidelines represent a positive step towards increased transparency and consumer protection within the gaming industry. By enforcing clearer communication and accountability, Valve aims to create a fairer and more predictable experience for players purchasing season passes on Steam.
