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On the case of the recent [adult game delistings on Steam](https://www.gamesmarket.global/business/payment-processor-demands-steams-new-adult-game-ban-apparently-not-implemented-in-germany-3c271f59f1d455363b1f8c7bd2184605) and itch.io due to [pressure by payment processors](https://www.gamesmarket.global/en/business/takedowns-itchio-delists-nsfw-games-indicates-guidelines-from-payment-processors-397b1638996482f257524f908a06a67d), the German games industry association game has issued a statement in response to a GamesMarkt query. 

Felix Falk, Managing Director of game - The German Games Industry Association says: "The artistic freedom of game developers is fundamental to games as a cultural medium. Any restrictions imposed by payment service providers or gaming platforms must not exceed the legal limits. In Germany, thanks in part to the USK, clear, binding, and established rules apply that must be adhered to. Furthermore, creative forms of expression or certain themes in games, such as diversity, must not be targeted by individual interests or campaigns from particularly vocal groups, as is currently being observed on Steam or itch.io. The terms and conditions of global payment service providers such as Visa, Mastercard, or PayPal must not conflict with European values such as freedom of expression or artistic freedom. We therefore call on the companies involved to design their rules and offerings in a manner that ensures compliance with applicable laws and prevents overblocking."

The statement comes just a day after Ukie, the UK association, has [issued a similar position](https://www.gamesmarket.global/en/business/game-delistings-ukie-payment-providers-should-trust-in-age-rating-systems-0519581b8bb4d8021226fb7f8dd32104). 

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game MD Felix Falk: "Expression and Diversity Must not be Targeted"