Video games are one of the best ways to spend time alone or with friends. There are numerous video game genres in the market today, including shooting, strategy, racing, action, etc. These games are built using the latest advanced technology that delivers HD graphics, authentic sound effects, fast loading speed, and seamless play.
Also, modern games are optimized to fit on all devices, including smartphones, tablets, and personal computers. Recently, there have been debates on whether or not video games promote gambling activities. In this article, we have provided detailed information on video games and gambling as well as top games with loot boxes.
Loot Boxes and Gambling
Over the past few years, video game lovers have been accessing a new feature that lets them purchase rewards using real money. This looks like the appearance of the latest new online casino sites at the market that are also available for minors. Usually, loot boxes are embedded in video games with rewards that are tagged with varying prices. The rewards offered by loot boxes may include a new outfit, superpowers, a catchphrase, etc. Players must use credit card details when purchasing the rewards.
The reason why loot boxes are associated with gambling is that the kind of reward to get is based on chance. Also, the fact that real money is used to buy the gift perks has made it addictive, especially to underage, which is why many government officials are pushing for video game loot boxes to be regulated. The people benefiting from loot boxes are publishers, who are estimated to have made $60 billion in 2018 alone.
Are Loot Boxes Harmful?
Video game loot boxes are considered harmful because they can lead to problem gambling. Many people have confessed to having spent thousands of dollars on these in-game purchases. According to a report published by the Royal Society Open Science journal, loot boxes can cause gambling addiction, especially among older adolescents.
Some countries like Belgium and the Netherlands have already banned loot boxes in popular video games like Overwatch and FIFA. As a matter of fact, all games with loot boxes are to be marked ‘R’ to prevent children from accessing them. Though this feature may be boosting the publisher’s income, it could be costly, especially for problem gamblers and the minor.
The good news is that video game developers have started adjusting their models with loot boxes, while others have changed the policies regarding the same.
Top 2 Games with Loot Boxes
Here are the two most popular video games with loot boxes:
Dota 2
This is a highly competitive MOBA video game and successor to the popular Warcraft 3 custom map. It attracts many people with its standalone client, and authentic background music and numerous heroes to choose from. The game was developed by IceFrog and released in 2013, but it’s still a hit today. Some of the exclusive features in Dota 2 include ‘All At Your Fingertips,’ ‘Snowball Easily,’ Huge Variety of Cosmetics,’ ‘Custom Game Support,’ and ‘Skill-based & Competitive.’ This video game is compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux.
PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds
Playerunknown’s Battleground or PUGB is a fun-filled video game that lets you join the other 100 players as you fight for your survival. As soon as it has loaded, you’ll be dropped two 8x8 km maps where all the action takes place. The distribution of weapons in this game is randomized. The secret to surviving is knowing the locations on the map that are prone to spawn military-grade weapons and attachment. The best part is that the game creates a reliable and streamlined space for enhancing adventure. The deadly fight continues until only one player is left standing. This game is compatible with PC, Xbox One, and PlayStation 4.
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