Over the past few months, Twitch has been exploring the issue of sexual content on the platform, trying to find a basis for it and define the boundaries of what should and should not be allowed. In December 2023, for example, the platform relaxed its policies, Effectively allowing more nudity in streams as long as proper rating labels are used. However, after several streamers pushed the matter further, Twitch reversed its decision, banning even implied nudity in January of this year.
Recently, a new trend has emerged where streamers project gameplay footage onto their chests, buttocks and other intimate body parts, using themselves as green screens. The trend has faced backlash from the community, with many criticizing streamers for exploiting their bodies for subscriptions and donations and the platform for allowing it.
In what appears to be a response to this criticism, Twitch has changed its Community Guidelines again, banning content that “focuses on intimate, clothed body parts such as the buttocks, groin, or breasts for extended periods of time” starting Friday, March 29. However, it is important to note that it is not made clear what constitutes “focus points” and how long is considered an “extended period,” leaving room for interpretation.
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