Loot boxes caused quite the kerfuffle last year, especially the controversy surrounding Star Wars Battlefront II. And now, French online gaming regulator ARJEL has published a report on its investigation into video game loot boxes (translated by media law associate Sebastian Schwiddessen via GamesIndustry.biz). The report was conducted to come to a conclusion on whether the practice should be classified as gambling. While ARJEL does seem to believe that loot boxes fit most of the bill, it hesitated to call them gambling.
While ARJEL won't rule loot boxes as gambling outright, it believes further action and better analysis needs to be taken. The gambling organization noted that a report is on its way from the Gaming Regulators European Forum that is supposed to clarify rules, inform consumers, and educate parents on the dangers to kids. Speaking of kids, ARJEL believes loot boxes are worth examining particularly because of the lack of strict age gating. And while there's no solid proof, loot boxes are similar enough to potentially normalize gambling and kick off addiction in kids.
And lastly, the odds for loot boxes aren't required to be disclosed in France as of yet--unlike China, where it's law. ARJEL has concerns that personal data could be exploited and used to change odds specifically to lure players into purchasing more loot boxes.
Yes, this recent loot box development leads today's episode of GameSpot Daily, but we've also got stories on Fallout 76's recent charity effort, our Steam Summer Sale hauls, and the possibility of Rocket League 2. That's what you'll find in today's show, but be sure to tune in every day of the week at 11 AM PST/2 PM EST/7 PM BST/4 AM AEST for another episode of GameSpot Daily. We cover the most exciting gaming news in 30 minutes or less.
