Steam Anti-Cheat Tool Stirs Division

Steam's New Anti-Cheat Disclosure Feature: A Step Towards Transparency?

Steam has implemented a new requirement for developers: disclosing whether their games utilize kernel-mode anti-cheat. This move aims to improve transparency and address player concerns regarding the often-controversial technology.

Valve's Enhanced Anti-Cheat Information

Via a Steamworks API update, developers can now specify their game's anti-cheat usage on their store pages. While disclosure for non-kernel-based anti-cheat remains optional, kernel-mode anti-cheat implementation is now mandatory. This addresses player anxieties about the potential performance impact and privacy implications of such systems.

Kernel-Mode Anti-Cheat: A Continuing Debate

Kernel-mode anti-cheat operates at a low system level, directly examining processes on a player's machine. This contrasts with traditional methods that analyze in-game activity. The increased access to system data has led to ongoing debates about potential security and privacy risks, as well as performance overhead.

Responding to Community Feedback

Valve's decision reflects feedback from both developers and players. Developers sought clearer ways to communicate anti-cheat details, while players demanded greater transparency regarding the software used and its potential impact. This update aims to satisfy both groups.

Mixed Community Reception

Launched October 31st, 2024, at 3:09 a.m. CST, the update is already visible, with games like Counter-Strike 2 showcasing their VAC usage. While many applaud Valve's pro-consumer approach, some criticize minor issues like inconsistent wording and unanswered questions about translation and the definition of "client-side kernel-mode" anti-cheat. The ongoing debate surrounding the invasiveness of kernel-mode anti-cheat also persists.

Despite initial criticisms, Valve's commitment to consumer protection is evident, as shown by their transparency regarding recent California legislation on digital goods advertising. The long-term impact on community concerns about kernel-mode anti-cheat remains to be seen.