Steam has updated its generative AI disclosure rules for game developers in early 2026, refining when and what kind of artificial intelligence usage must be reported on the platform’s store pages. The change focuses on giving players clear information about AI content they actually encounter, while reducing requirements for backend development tools that don’t directly affect gameplay or assets seen by players.
What The New Disclosure Rules Say
Under the revised guidelines, developers submitting games to Steam must disclose whether generative AI was used to create content that players see or interact with. This covers assets included with the game, such as artwork, sound, narrative text, localization, and even marketing materials displayed on the Steam store.
At the same time, the updated policy makes it clear that AI-powered tools used behind the scenes to assist development—such as code helpers, conceptual tools, or other productivity aids—do not have to be disclosed. Valve’s language states that “efficiency gains through the use of these tools is not the focus” of the disclosure requirements.
Live-Generated Content And Player Reporting
The refined rules still require disclosure when a game uses live-generated AI content during gameplay. This includes systems that dynamically produce images, audio, text, or other game elements while the game is running. Developers must indicate the use of such systems and outline safeguards they have implemented to prevent inappropriate or unlawful content from appearing to players.
In addition to clarifying the categories of AI use that must be reported, the update also introduced a reporting mechanism within the Steam overlay that allows players to flag problematic AI-generated content. This provides a direct feedback tool for players concerned about live AI systems in games.
Why This Matters For Players And Developers
The updated guidelines reflect ongoing debate in the industry about how AI should be communicated to players. By narrowing the scope of what needs disclosure, Valve aims to alleviate pressure on developers while still ensuring that players are informed about AI-generated content they will actively experience.
For players, this means that Steam store pages should offer clearer signals about when generative AI was genuinely involved in the creation of game content, rather than being used for internal development tasks. As AI technologies continue to evolve and become more common in development pipelines, how platforms balance transparency with practicality will likely remain a key topic throughout 2026.
