Valve called out by the European Commission for geo-blocking games

Valve called out by the European Commission for geo-blocking games

5 years ago
Anonymous $syBn1NGQOq

https://www.pcgamer.com/valve-called-out-by-the-european-commission-for-geo-blocking-games/

Valve and five other publishers may be in breach of EU competition rules, according to a statement from the European Commission. The problem? Geo-blocking games. The Commission says Valve, Bandai Namco, Capcom, Focus Home, Koch Media and ZeniMax have entered into bilateral agreements that stop people from acquiring and playing PC games outside of their region, which is apparently against EU antitrust rules. 

If you use Steam, you might already be aware of the regional pricing differences. Games in some countries cost less than they would in others, ostensibly reflecting the different economies of the countries they're sold in. Without geo-blocking, people from wealthier countries could net themselves some bargains by shopping elsewhere.