YouTube will implement new regulations starting November 17, 2025, aimed at decreasing minors’ exposure to gambling and explicit violent video game content.
The revised policies will encompass gambling activities that involve NFTs and various virtual assets. Videos featuring social casino games or graphic violence will face age limitations or potential removal from the platform.
Policy Scope and Implementation
According to the new guidelines, content creators focusing on casino simulations, in-game gambling elements, or NFT wagering must ensure their content meets compliance standards. YouTube clarified that the updated criteria affect videos showcasing virtual gambling behavior, regardless of their connections to real-money gaming sites.
Initially, YouTube’s rules only restricted links to unapproved gambling websites. From November onwards, the restrictions will also apply to gambling conducted with in-game items that possess real-world value, like Counter-Strike: Global Offensive skins, digital skins, or NFT tokens.
YouTube confirmed it will enforce these regulations globally, offering creators a grace period prior to the effective date for any necessary adjustments.
Monetization and Age Limitations
Content displaying virtual slot machines, poker, roulette, or equivalent casino-style games will automatically be restricted to viewers aged 18 and older. Although these games don’t involve real money, YouTube categorizes them as simulations of gambling behavior.
The platform noted that creators can still upload such content, but it may experience reduced visibility or monetization limitations. Age limitations or possible removals may also apply to content identified as endorsing gambling-like behaviors through virtual goods or assets.
Policy on Violent Video Game Content
The new regulations will also govern violent video game content, especially when realistic violence against human-like characters is illustrated. YouTube will evaluate scenes based on their realism, length, and overall significance.
Videos that illustrate torture, executions, or harm to non-combatants may incur age restrictions or removal. Gameplay clips from titles such as Call of Duty, Resident Evil, or The Last of Us may need editing or blurring of violent parts to comply with the new standards. YouTube provides editing tools for creators to make these adjustments without the need to delete entire videos.
Existing Content and Appeals Process
Older videos that do not adhere to the new guidelines may face restrictions or removal, but YouTube has confirmed that no penalty strikes will be issued for such content. Creators can appeal decisions through YouTube Studio by providing timestamps and justification—such as educational or documentary context—to strengthen their appeal.
YouTube recommends that creators review their existing content before November 17, manually implement age restrictions where needed, eliminate links to gambling or NFT platforms, and keep abreast of policy updates on the Creator Blog.
The company’s updates are part of its continuous effort to align with digital safety practices and minimize exposure to adult or monetarily oriented gambling content. The changes also address concerns surrounding minors’ access to material that involves virtual economies and simulated violence.
YouTube has indicated that future revisions may occur as technologies evolve, including blockchain, artificial intelligence, and virtual reality. The platform encourages content creators to remain informed and ensure adherence to the latest guidelines.