eBay Bans the Sale of ‘Adult Only’ Video Games

When it comes to what we might politely describe as ‘adult only’ products, eBay has often been more than a little vague about what is allowed and what is not. Following a new update to their official guidelines, however, it would appear that something of a moderate purge is on the way in regards to what can and cannot be sold on their website. And yes, as bizarre as this might seem, this doesn’t just include curiously shaped ‘massagers’ but also video games!

New eBay Rules Blocks Adult Only Games!

We should note that most of the new regulations largely appertain to nocturnal entertainment equipment which, for the sake of our SEO and keeping in good standing with Google, I will not go into any further detail on. What is interesting, however, is that these new rules also specifically state that any video games with an ‘Adults Only’ rating will not be made available for sale on their website anymore.

“Adult films and video games with a rating of X, XXX, R18, or unrated for an adults-only audience”

So, what does this mean? Well, yes, admittedly, there are very few mainstream ESRB-rated games that carry this title. The vast majority of them are of the hairy palmed variety and were usually created by a relatively obscure Japanese developer. What might be of interest, however, is that this is a move that will see one mainstream and exceptionally popular title banned.

Namely, Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas.

Why This Game?

I should note that there are three other mainstream games that you may know of that are also officially given an ‘AO’ rating by the ESRB. In comparison to GTA San Andreas, however, they were nowhere near as popular or financially successful. You might wonder why San Andreas got an ‘Adults Only’ rating and particularly so since no other GTA has one before or since. Well, I can clear that up in just two words. Hot Coffee. If you don’t know what that is, Google it (NSFW warning!).

So, while the new rules are certainly looking to make eBay a more wholesome place, it does appear that if you have a nice shiny sealed copy of GTA: San Andreas you’re looking to part with, you’re going to have to explore some other options now because eBay doesn’t want that kind of business!

You can check out the full updates guidelines via the link here!

What do you think? – Let us know in the comments!