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Lifting the Lid on Loot-Boxes

Author: J. Close & J. Lloyd Published: April 2021

Summary

This report by GambleAware examines loot boxes in video games, their links to gambling, and potential harms they cause. It explores player motivations, spending patterns, and policy implications.

Topics covered

  • exploring the links between loot boxes and problem gambling
  • motivations for purchasing loot boxes
  • financial and psychological impacts on players
  • policy recommendations and regulation

Key findings

Loot boxes are linked to problem gambling, especially for young men.

A small number of high-spending players generate most loot box revenue.

Motivations for buying loot boxes include: 

- social factors
- game progress
- fear of missing out

The report recommends clearer odds disclosures, spending limits, and better consumer protections to reduce potential harms.

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