Washington State Wants To know Whether Loot Boxes Are Gambling

The State of Washington is limbo regarding loot boxes. The State Senator Kevin Ranker is asking the Gambling Commission to answer. Kevin is asking the State’s Gambling Commission to come out clear on the matter. According to the Senator, loot boxes are predatory to children. According to many, a loot box is a consumable part of the game. It is a chest that gives a player more chances to win more items virtually. See How the Real Money Gaming Industry Defends Loot Boxes Against Gambling Claims.

Are Loot Boxes Considered Real Money Gambling?

Most importantly, this is not the first time loot boxes are emerging in the state. They are here for some time. They are intricate in that many people do not know how they work. Those who understand a loot box, however, see that it is a device. Its main work is to monetize mobile freemium. They are common in monetizing social games. But at the same time, they can act as compulsory. In the end, loot boxes engage players throughout the day. Many players who choose to take part in these types of games often use a lot of money.

Why Does Washington State Care?

These boxes are indeed a paradox to unlock. Many people have mixed reactions when it comes to what they are. But it is good to know that they are highly addictive. Besides, they have an element of chance. Because of their characteristics, many people say they are not different from slot machines. Also, this is certainly worrying lawmakers and regulators. Even more, their proliferation among other major video releases is a cause of concern. For these reasons, Washington State Senator feels that they can be real money gambling devices. He is not alone with the same feeling. Many other politicians are also saying that the commission should look into the matter.

Star Wars Battlefront 2, and Middle Earth: Shadow of War

On the issue of proliferation, recent releases have boxes in them. For instance, there are three perfect examples of video slots that incorporate loot boxes. Examples of the latest releases are Star Wars Battlefront 2, and Middle Earth: Shadow of War. These new games require that gamers make micro-transactions. Also, this happens even as they are giving $60 to buy the game.

Because of such characteristics that are hard to see, regulators are raising concerns. They argue that it is hard for children to tell the difference. What difference are they supposed to say? Children are supposed to tell the difference between gaming and gambling.

What Is The Difference Between Gaming And Gambling?

If there is no state involvement, no one can say that a loot box is gambling. But now that there is a stake, regulators feel that it is time to change the definition. In a press statement, the senator says that it will be wrong if nothing will take place. He expresses concern that something is wrong somewhere. He even reminds the commission of what the law says.

“What the bill says is, ‘Industry, state: sit down to figure out the best way to regulate this. It is unacceptable to be targeting our children. You can’t focus them with predatory gambling by masking it in a game with dancing bunnies or something,” the Senator says. For a long time, loot boxes are just games. But many people question their definition.

Whether loot boxes are considered real money gambling is highly debatable. According to our research, it appears that loot boxes have become regulated under gambling laws in specific countries. For example, loot boxes appear to be are real money gambling in Belguim, The Isle Of Man, Belgium, The Netherlands, Australia, Japan, and China. Having said that, it appears that gambling regulators may be investigating loot boxes in other countries.

If you are not familiar with what a loot box is, it is referred to as a prize or loot crate when playing regular video games. However, this virtual item is avaiable for purchase and sometimes can be redeemed when you level up in a game. Some examples of loot boxes are changing your avatar and buying body armor and weapons in games. For video game companies, they are a great thing because they offer an additional revenue stream beside buying or renting the actual game or app.