Google AdSense Removes Video Games Ads Blocking Option

On May 15, 2025, Google AdSense began to remove the "Video Games (Casual & Online)" sensitive category from blocking controls. Publishers will no longer be able to block advertisements for video games, online games, and downloaded games by using the "Video Games (Casual & Online)" sensitive category.

If you don't already have any blocks that utilize this category

You do not have to take any action. Google AdSense deleted the "Video Games (Casual & Online)" category from your blocking controls.

If you already have blocks that utilize this category

Google AdSense has added a "Deprecated" label to the "Video Games (Casual & Online)" category in your blocking controls. Then, on June 15, 2025, your existing blocks will no longer apply. Note that you may still utilize the "Video Games, Consoles & Accessories" and "Online Games & Puzzles" general categories or their subcategories to prohibit adverts for video games, online games, and downloadable games if you feel they are inappropriate for your users.

Google AdSense recommends that you review and update your existing general category and sensitive category blocks within your blocking controls to ensure that your brand safety standards are met successfully.