Season Pass content is one of the most common ways to generate revenue for games like Fortnite or Call of Duty that want players to return day after day, month after month. This week, Valve-owned PC gaming platform Steam implemented rules that require developers to disclose their policies regarding season pass plans and how developers must communicate with players about such content.
Steam documents It now states that when a season ticket is offered for a game, it must list all downloadable content (DLC) included with that purchase. Developers will also need to provide an expected release date for each DLC. Delays are common in game development, but Valve will only allow a studio to reschedule the season pass release date once. If further changes are required, Valve will have to get involved to make the change. In cases where season pass content is cancelled, customers will receive a refund for the unreleased content they paid for.
“By offering a Season Pass, you are promising future content,” the document reads. During the Season Pass launch process, you will be asked to commit to a launch schedule for each content release in the Season Pass. This launch timing is a commitment to both customers and Steam. “If you are not prepared to communicate clearly about the content included in each DLC and when each DLC will be ready to launch, you should not offer a Season Pass on Steam.” statements are included.
Source: www.technopat.net
