Google and Microsoft Ask Portugal to Separate Games from Social Media

A new 2026 law in Portugal aims to restrict social media access for users under 16, and the gaming industry is quickly raising concerns. Tech giants and game developers are having a serious debate on how this could accidentally restrict our access to multiplayer titles.

Heavyweights like Microsoft and Google, alongside video game associations, are asking lawmakers to clearly distinguish between a game and a social platform. While online games do have social elements, treating a virtual lobby exactly like a social media feed could drastically change how we play online.

Why video games are not social networks

The main issue with the proposed legislation is that it lumps everything together, mixing endless-scrolling platforms with gaming ecosystems. Industry advocates argue that video games are cultural artifacts and entertainment software, not just apps meant for chatting and sharing pictures.

Placing a blanket restriction could lock young players out of harmless console entertainment. Games that don't even feature active voice chat or social interactions shouldn't face the same strict age-verification walls designed to shield kids from social algorithms.

The challenge of age verification in gaming

Beyond defining what constitutes a game, tech companies are split on how to actually verify a player's age. According to broader industry analysis by GamesIndustry.biz, finding a frictionless but effective age verification method remains a massive technical hurdle. Some argue that the burden should fall on the operating systems and app stores, checking IDs before an app is even downloaded.

Meanwhile, Microsoft's Xbox division and other industry leaders are calling for harmonized rules across regions instead of a patchwork of local laws. Poorly designed regulations could force developers to overhaul entire game servers just to comply with one specific country's rules.

Creating a safer digital environment is the ultimate goal, but game creators need clear boundaries so the online experience isn't ruined by accident. As lawmakers look to finalize these rules by summer, we'll be watching to see if gaming platforms get the distinct rules they need.