- YouTube expands gambling restrictions to cover video game skins and NFTs.
- Policy takes effect Nov 17, 2025, for content directing viewers to gambling platforms.
- Platform clarifies that educational blockchain content and gameplay videos remain permitted.
YouTube has announced policy changes that initially caused concern across the Web3 gaming and cryptocurrency creator community. The platform’s revised gambling guidelines, effective November 17, 2025, expand restrictions to cover digital goods with real-world monetary value.
The updated Community Guidelines now prohibit content that directs viewers to online gambling sites or applications involving video game skins, cosmetics, NFTs, cryptocurrency tokens, and in-game assets exchangeable for real money. Videos promoting or linking to gambling platforms using these digital assets will face content removal or age restrictions unless platforms are certified by Google Ads and comply with local regulations.
Creator Community Voices Concerns
NFT creator Leevai expressed frustration in a recent X post, stating, “YouTube’s new policy is a direct attack on Web3 gaming and CS skins. Starting November 17, any videos promoting NFTs, crypto tokens, or in-game skins with real value get hit as gambling violations.”
The concern stems from uncertainty about how YouTube will distinguish between promoting digital goods versus simply discussing or displaying them in content. Many blockchain-based games incorporate tradable tokens and NFTs as core gameplay mechanics, creating confusion about what activities cross into gambling promotion territory.
Following backlash, YouTube clarified that the policy does not ban general crypto, NFT, or Web3 gaming content. A YouTube spokesperson told media outlets that content showing video game items creators earn in games or general discussions about assets with real-world monetary value will not be affected by this update.
Educational Content Remains Acceptable
Content that remains permitted includes educational material about blockchain technology and Web3 games, gameplay videos showcasing NFT-based games, and commentary analyzing crypto gaming economics. It also includes discussions about digital assets without promoting gambling activities.
YouTube will also age-restrict content featuring social casino games, even those not involving real money, such as virtual slots, poker, or roulette. These videos will only be accessible to users 18 and older.
The policy directly impacts the Counter-Strike two skin economy, where weapon skins trade for thousands of dollars. Third-party sites allow users to gamble these skins on esports matches or casino-style games, effectively converting cosmetic items into virtual currency.
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