Due to both the social stigma of not having the best
cosmetics or not owning the best piece of gear in
the game, users succumb to their urges and
purchase these items with real-life money.
When the user obtains an extremely rare item from a loot
box, they receive a dopamine rush making them
want to continue purchasing them.
Why Are Lootboxes Bad?
Games that have a pay-to-win aspect attached to
loot boxes also become difficult for consumers who
do not purchase loot boxes as they cannot beat the
pay-to-win players with their gear, forcing them to
either purchase loot boxes or continue to lose.
These companies know exactly what they are doing
and understand that they can profit greatly if
consumers continue to purchase these loot boxes
and accept the status quo.
Definition
Loot boxes are consumables that a user can open up and
they are then given a prize ranging anywhere from a
cosmetic item to items that provide game changing effects.
$3B USD
Certain video games, such as CS:GO, allow players to use their
skins (which have a real-life value) in online gambling sites,
which are no different than the types of games found in casinos.
More Stats
11 Years Old
370 000 Children
Kids as young as 11 use these sites. One of the main issues with loot boxes is how easy
it is for children to gamble away their skins, without
any age restriction. While certain countries have
started to regulate loot boxes, not enough is being
done to enforce this new market.
Overall, the report shows that around 370,000 11-16 year-olds spent their own money on gambling in the past week, in England, Scotland and Wales. This is more than 10x the size of Stratford's population. Only 11% of kids from 11 to 16 are well aware of "skin betting".
Next Steps
Step 1
Make yourself aware of the situation and
understand what loot boxes are.
Step 2
Have a talk with your child and inform them on the
dangers associated with loot boxes.
Step 3
Ensure your child no longer purchases loot boxes
and/or plays games that have a pay-to-win aspect
directly attached to loot boxes
