Published: 10.05.2019, 15:54
1 min read
Missouri Senator Josh Hawley has introduced legislation that could ban loot boxes from video games. Senator claims that the aim is to protect children that are playing the games.
The news comes right after the new study suggested that there is a direct link between loot boxes and gambling. Potential regulation would outright ban both loot boxes and skins gambling. Valve is being sued over the latter issue, as it is topical as well.
According to some estimates, the “loot” industry could be worth more than $50b. Considering the fact that loot boxes are banned in the EU, the industry could suffer a blow due to the new US legislation. However, not all countries have banned the activity. Loot boxes are not considered gambling in Germany and Ireland. This is the focal point of The Entertainment Software Association, a video game lobbying group.
Despite the apparent harshness, the ban seems to be targetting only certain games. As such, games that are specifically targeted towards players under 18 will be in question. Additionally, “Pay to Win” schemes might also be targeted.
There might be more suggestions and discussion for such laws in the future. As more US states legalize sports betting and online casinos, the unfair competition is likely to be alleged by more lawmakers.
