Epic Games Store to introduce age checks for R18+ games in Australia
Epic Games is implementing mandatory age verification for players in Australia seeking to download or purchase R18+ rated games on the Epic Games Store, effective September 9. The policy update ensures compliance with Australia’s online safety code requirements for adult content access.
The age verification system will be operated through Epic’s existing Kids Web Services (KWS) infrastructure, which has been expanded to include multiple third-party verification options. Players can choose their preferred verification method, with options including selfie-based verification through Yoti and credit card verification, among other methods outlined in the company’s implementation.
The measure is designed to prevent minors from accessing age-restricted content while maintaining a streamlined process for adult players. Notably, the implementation does not affect players’ access to games they have already purchased, nor does it impact titles rated below R18+. This targeted approach balances regulatory compliance with user experience considerations.
The initiative reflects broader regulatory trends across digital platforms and storefronts, as governments worldwide implement stricter oversight of age-restricted content distribution online. Epic’s approach using its existing infrastructure allows the company to integrate age verification without requiring significant platform restructuring, setting a precedent for how digital storefronts can adapt to regional regulatory requirements.