YouTube is updating its policy to age-restrict more content that features “graphic violence” within video-game footage. The change, effective November 17, 2025, will block users under 18 and unsigned users from watching videos that depict “realistic human characters” in scenes of mass violence or torture.
New age criteria
Under the revised rules, YouTube will evaluate video-game clips based on factors such as scene length, whether the camera is zoomed in on violent acts, and how human-like the characters appear. Although the platform previously allowed dramatized violence where it was clearly fictional. Now with the update, some game footage will now be treated more like live-action violence. Creators may avoid automatic age-restriction by adding blur effects or choosing cleaner gameplay segments, according to the policy guidelines.
“YouTube’s policies are designed to adapt to the evolving digital world, and these updates reflect our ongoing commitment to protect younger users and foster a responsible platform,” YouTube spokesperson Boot Bullwinkle said
Broader implications for creators and games
The policy change may affect creators who post gameplay from titles known for high-fidelity human characters and realistic violence, such as Grand Theft Auto VI, as their content may now be flagged more often. The update also corresponds to YouTube’s expanded crackdown on content tied to online gambling and digital goods.
The platform has stated the change reflects its commitment to younger viewers and responsible moderation. Some creators will need to review their upload practices to comply with the new threshold for age-restriction.