Gosport MP Caroline Dinenage asks gamers to share their experiences with loot boxes ahead of government report

The government is calling for evidence to be brought forward about loot boxes – treasure chests in games that are purchased using real money.

Popularised by games such as FIFA, Destiny and Overwatch, the player has no idea what they will get when the open the box, which campaigners believe should classify it as gambling.

Many of these games are rated as being suitable for children.

Now, the Department for Media, Culture and Sport (DCMS) is calling for gamers, businesses and children’s organisations to come forward with evidence, ahead of a report on the issue later this year.

Gosport MP Caroline Dinenage is the department’s portfolio holder for video games.

She said everyone is able to take part in the process.

‘The call for evidence will be open to anyone who wishes to respond, including consumers, games companies and organisations who protect the interests of children and help problem gamblers,’ she said.

‘During the Covid-19 lockdown, video games have had a positive role, as a source of entertainment and a way to connect with others.

‘Video games companies have also supported efforts to tackle Covid-19 by inserting public health messaging into games, but it is important that these games can be enjoyed safely.

‘This will help to determine the scale and nature of problems related to loot boxes, including the extent to which they may lead to gambling-like behaviour.’

In Belgium, the government banned loot boxes completely in 2018, transforming the way games such as FIFA are played in the country.

Ms Dinenage said she ‘would not want to prejudge the outcome’ of the government’s investigation, but said how other countries have tackled the issue will be taken into consideration.

Mobile games will also be looked into.

She said: ‘We envisage exploring issues such as the size and variation of the market, the design of mechanisms, the context in terms of other types of in-game spending, the impact on consumers and particularly young people including links to problem gambling, and the effectiveness of the current statutory and voluntary regulation that is in place.

‘We expect to launch the call for evidence this summer.’

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