Thanks for the comment, Petros. This is quite a common analogy, and there is definitely some truth to it. The issue, I think, comes from more of a Consumer Protection angle. I think the first point is that the digital nature makes it easier to spend in excess (this is a consumer protection concern, but fairly minor, in my opinion).
Many people have a more significant issue with loot boxes because of how they're designed and shown. They often have mechanics or visuals similar to slot machines (see a CS case opening where a wheel spins and stops on the skin). These items have a monetary value that can be traded through Steam/third-party marketplace. Some of the 'limited time' nature of loot box offers also give the payment/reward dynamic and encourage purchase within particular windows for a better chance.
I don't think putting loot boxes under gambling regulators is the answer. Still, correct probability disclosure and perhaps lessening the visual impact would steer people away from labeling them outright gambling products!
Thanks for the post. I have a question and I'm open to discussion: There's a lot of talk about loot boxes being considered gambling. But wouldn’t the same apply to Panini stickers or Topps cards? At the end of the day, they're just loot boxes in physical form. You pay, hope for the best, and tear open the pack, praying you've hit big.
Thanks for the comment, Petros. This is quite a common analogy, and there is definitely some truth to it. The issue, I think, comes from more of a Consumer Protection angle. I think the first point is that the digital nature makes it easier to spend in excess (this is a consumer protection concern, but fairly minor, in my opinion).
Many people have a more significant issue with loot boxes because of how they're designed and shown. They often have mechanics or visuals similar to slot machines (see a CS case opening where a wheel spins and stops on the skin). These items have a monetary value that can be traded through Steam/third-party marketplace. Some of the 'limited time' nature of loot box offers also give the payment/reward dynamic and encourage purchase within particular windows for a better chance.
I don't think putting loot boxes under gambling regulators is the answer. Still, correct probability disclosure and perhaps lessening the visual impact would steer people away from labeling them outright gambling products!
Thanks for the post. I have a question and I'm open to discussion: There's a lot of talk about loot boxes being considered gambling. But wouldn’t the same apply to Panini stickers or Topps cards? At the end of the day, they're just loot boxes in physical form. You pay, hope for the best, and tear open the pack, praying you've hit big.