Steam's New Anti-Cheat Disclosure Feature Sparks Debate

Steam is mandating that developers disclose whether their games utilize kernel-mode anti-cheat, a system that has generated significant controversy. This article explores Steam's recent platform update and the ongoing discussion surrounding kernel-mode anti-cheat.

Steam Introduces Anti-Cheat Transparency Tool

Valve recently announced a new feature on the Steamworks API, allowing developers to specify the anti-cheat software used in their games. While disclosure for non-kernel-based systems remains optional, kernel-mode anti-cheat implementation is now mandatory. This move aims to address player concerns regarding the potentially intrusive nature of such systems.

Kernel-Mode Anti-Cheat: A Point of Contention

Kernel-mode anti-cheat software directly examines processes on a player's device to detect malicious activity. Unlike traditional methods that analyze in-game behavior, this approach accesses low-level system data, raising concerns about performance impact, security, and privacy.

Responding to Developer and Player Feedback

Valve's update reflects feedback from both developers seeking clearer communication methods and players demanding greater transparency about anti-cheat technologies and associated software installations. The new feature benefits both parties by improving communication and providing players with more informed choices.

Mixed Reactions to the New Feature

Launched on October 31, 2024, at 3:09 a.m. CST, the update is already live. Counter-Strike 2's Steam page now clearly displays its use of Valve Anti-Cheat (VAC). While many applaud Valve's "pro-consumer" stance, some criticize minor issues like inconsistent wording and raise questions about handling translations and the definition of "client-side kernel-mode" anti-cheat. The ongoing debate surrounding the invasiveness of kernel-mode anti-cheat persists.

Despite initial mixed reactions, Valve's commitment to consumer-friendly platform changes remains evident, as shown by their transparency regarding recent California consumer protection legislation. Whether this latest update will fully alleviate community concerns about kernel-mode anti-cheat remains to be seen.