DLsite Launches Own Payment System After Visa, Mastercard Block
Japanese digital platform DLsite has launched its own payment system after major credit card companies Visa and Mastercard restricted services over adult content. The new “Minna no Ginko Payment” system allows direct bank transfers, bypassing international payment processors entirely.
Key Takeaways
- DLsite created its own payment system after Visa/Mastercard restrictions
- New service links directly with Japan’s Minna no Ginko bank
- Available only to Japanese customers initially
- Move follows broader payment restrictions on adult content
Payment Restrictions and Industry Impact
In July, Visa and Mastercard suspended services for DLsite, citing policy violations. The credit card giants had pressured multiple platforms to remove adult-rated titles, leading Steam to pull over 100 games from its catalogue.
The restrictions sparked criticism from gamers, LGBTQQIP2SA communities, and developers who accused the companies of censorship and financial interference. Although Visa and Mastercard later denied direct involvement, the incident raised concerns about financial institutions monitoring personal transactions.
The controversy reached the White House, where then-President Donald Trump issued a statement prohibiting financial institutions from rejecting transactions based solely on ideological grounds.
DLsite’s Response and New System
During the restriction period, only Japan’s JCB credit cards continued working on DLsite. The company had attempted to adjust content categorization to meet payment providers’ guidelines, but these measures proved insufficient.
DLsite’s parent companies, viviON and Eisys, developed Minna no Ginko Payment as an alternative. Users can now link their Minna no Ginko bank account directly to their viviON account, completely bypassing third-party payment processors.
The platform is offering discounts and special rewards to encourage adoption of the new system. However, the service is currently limited to Japanese customers since Minna no Ginko doesn’t allow international account openings. The banking app may also not function properly outside Japan.
This move represents a significant shift for DLsite as it reduces reliance on international financial networks and maintains control over transactions involving adult content.
