itch.io to reindex free adult content as they search for new payment processors

The ongoing saga of payment processors pushing game stores continues, with itch.io now reindexing free adult content but some issues remain. Previously, itch.io announced they were forced to deindex (remove from search results) adult content due to pressure from their payment providers.

In a post on the itch.io forum, founder Leaf Corcoran noted that discussions with payment processors is ongoing. Paid adult content will be re-introduced much slower "to ensure we can confidently support the widest range of creators in the long term". The itch store is also now getting a new content warning system for pages tagged as "NSFW" (not safe for work).

One payment processor mentioned by Corcoran is Stripe, which itch.io has used for over 10 years. They spoke with Stripe, who mentioned they are not able to support "content designed for sexual gratification" and Stripe provided a further message:

Stripe is currently unable to support sexually explicit content due to restrictions placed on them by their banking partners, despite card networks generally supporting adult content (with the appropriate registrations). Stripe has indicated that they hope to be able to support adult content in the future.

Corcoran confirmed itch.io are looking at other payment partners for payment Stripe cannot process.