Steam's new anti-cheat disclosure sparks debate. Valve recently announced a mandatory update requiring developers to declare the use of kernel-mode anti-cheat systems within their Steam games. This move follows ongoing player and developer feedback regarding transparency and the potential invasiveness of such systems.
The update, implemented via the Steamworks API, allows developers to specify their game's anti-cheat software. While disclosure for non-kernel-based systems remains optional, kernel-mode anti-cheat usage is now mandatory. This reflects growing community concerns about the potential performance impact and privacy implications associated with kernel-level access.
Kernel-mode anti-cheat works by directly examining system processes, unlike traditional methods that analyze in-game activity. This deeper level of access has been a source of contention, with some players expressing worries about security and privacy risks.
Valve's decision appears to be a direct response to both developer requests for clear communication tools and player demands for greater transparency. The new feature aims to bridge this communication gap, providing players with clearer information about the anti-cheat software utilized in their games and any associated software installations.
The announcement, made on October 31st, 2024, has generated mixed reactions. While many applaud Valve's pro-consumer approach, some criticize minor issues like inconsistent wording and raise practical questions about language translation and the definition of "client-side kernel-mode" anti-cheat. The ongoing debate surrounding the intrusiveness of kernel-mode anti-cheat persists, despite Valve's efforts towards increased transparency. The long-term impact on community sentiment remains uncertain. The Counter-Strike 2 Steam page now prominently displays its use of Valve Anti-Cheat (VAC) as an example of the new system in action.
