CSGO Gambling Sponsorships Banned as Valve Implements Crackdown
Twitch has recently implemented updated rules concerning CS: GO gambling promotions and sponsorships. The revised guidelines prohibit CS: GO streamers from promoting skin gambling sites during their broadcasts if they are sponsored by such sites. This move comes in response to Valve’s adjustments to the Steam regulations related to CS: GO gambling, which is anticipated in light of the upcoming Counter-Strike 2 release.
CS: GO skin gambling involves players using in-game weapon skins acquired by spending real money to open cases, similar to using casino chips. Players wager these skins, hoping to win rarer and more valuable ones in return.
However, it’s worth noting that the new Twitch rules do not explicitly forbid broadcasting of actual CS: GO gambling. The platform will continue to allow the broadcasting of websites focused on fantasy sports, sports betting, and poker for the time being.
As part of the revised rules, Twitch now explicitly prohibits streamers from promoting CSGO skin gambling sites. These sites frequently collaborate with Counter-Strike players, who may share offers, discounts, and other incentives related to skin gambling with their viewers. The updated Twitch guidelines also include an FAQ section, addressing the question, “Is sponsorship of skins gambling, such as for CSGO skins, allowed on Twitch?” The answer to this question is a clear “no,” as such sponsorships are no longer permitted on the streaming platform.
Under the revised guidelines, Twitch explicitly states that any form of promotion or sponsorship of skins gambling, including CSGO skins, is strictly prohibited on their platform. This policy change aligns with Valve’s own update to their Steam Online Conduct guidance, which specifically prohibits gambling as a prohibited commercial activity. Valve has previously taken legal action against certain CSGO gambling sites, such as CSGOLounge and CSGOLotto.
In response to the growing interest in CSGO gambling, Twitch has clarified its stance on the matter and added clear language to their FAQ section to emphasize that any promotion or sponsorship related to skins gambling is not allowed on their service.
On a different note, with the upcoming release of Counter-Strike 2, players can look forward to exploring all the rebuilt maps using Source 2. To be fully prepared for the game’s launch, gamers can keep an eye out for the Counter-Strike 2 system requirements that Valve is expected to reveal.
