Apple has clarified the list of rules that relate to the image of weapons in games

This applies to covers, screenshots and other promotional materials.

Basic rules

• the materials should not contain realistic images of firearms;it is allowed to show fictional weapons, but only if they are not directed at the screen and are in an inactive state;
• guns can not be depicted during the shot;
• edged weapons should not be aimed at the viewer and contain blood on them.
• Examples of how not to and how to show weapons 

For the first time, Apple introduced changes to its rules for the image of weapons back in 2015.

For many developers then it was a surprise, because before that all the materials were checked by the company. This was the case, for example, with the creator of the game Gunslugs II, who suddenly could not release an update for his project due to new criteria.

As a result, the developers had to go to tricks to comply with Apple’s policy. Some companies hastily covered up images of weapons on promotional materials or simply replaced pistols with conventional batons.

A screenshot of the Tempo game after Apple’s rule changes in 2015Such rules are needed, first of all, to ensure that all images in the App Store fit the 4+ age category.

At the same time, developers have repeatedly criticized Apple for its policy regarding games. For example, the company has a completely different attitude to films and TV series, allowing weapons to be shown on posters and in trailers.

Also on the topic:

• Apple allowed pre-orders to be placed in the App Store six months before the launchThe case of Epic Games and Apple threatens “serious consequences” for Nintendo, PlayStation and Xbox
• The US Congress proposed to divide Facebook, Google, Amazon and Apple into small companies
• Is there any news?