Steam updates Season Pass policies warning developers to "clearly communicate" about DLC content

by Danny Craig  · 
Steam updates Season Pass policies warning developers to "clearly communicate" about DLC content
Valve

Valve has updated Steam's Season Pass policies, telling developers that if they are unable to "clearly communicate" to players about the content offered, they "shouldn't offer a Season Pass on Steam."

The details:

  • Steam's new Season Pass guidelines now require developers to provide a complete list of all included DLC, a brief description of the DLC's content, such as new weapons, areas, and enemies, and at least a rough release window. Also, with the exception of passes included in deluxe edition pre-orders, at least one DLC must be available immediately when a Season Pass goes on sale.

  • Valve has explained the reasoning behind the decision, stating that releasing a Season Pass is "promising future content" and that requiring studios to set release dates is a "commitment to both customers and Steam." "If you aren't ready to clearly communicate about the content included in each DLC AND when each DLC will be ready for launch, you shouldn't offer a Season Pass on Steam,” the guidelines state.

  • Valve has also acknowledged that development issues can make a release date impossible to meet, and has given developers the option to reschedule a release date for Season Pass content once. However, the new date must fall within three months of the original expected release date.

  • With the new policies, players will be able to receive refunds for the value of Season Pass DLC if it is canceled for any reason. If developers delay a DLC beyond three months from the original target release date, Valve says it may step in to refund players for the DLC or the entire Season Pass, or even remove it from sale. "Under the Steam Distribution Agreement you have provided a warranty to Valve that your DLC will conform in all respects to the descriptions provided to customers, including promised release dates," Valve wrote. "Even if there has not yet been a customer complaint, Valve may take action if you delay a DLC more than a quarter (three months) beyond the release window you originally promised."

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