A US senator is going to introduce a law banning loot boxes and pay-to-win monetization
Senator Josh Hawley announced the preparation of a law that would ban the use of loot boxes and pay-to-win monetization in games in the United States.
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About it today, May 8, Kotaku reports.
If adopted, the law will apply both to games created for those under the age of 18, and to projects whose “developers deliberately allow minors to make micropayments.”
The law is called the “Act on the Protection of Children from Illegal Games.” It is not known when exactly it will be presented to the Senate. However, Hawley promises to do it soon.
The senator’s team cites Candy Crush Saga as a “blatant” example of unauthorized use of micropayments. It is said that the free game can be purchased for $ 149.99 so-called Luscious Bundle. The latter, in addition to the in-game currency, includes a set of boosters that simplify the passage of the game, as well as a day of unlimited lives.
If the game is created for children, developers should not be allowed to monetize addiction. And in the event that children play adult projects, they should be protected from intrusive micropayments. Those game developers who deliberately exploit children should be brought to justice.
U.S. Senator from Missouri
Kotaku also reports that the Entertainment Software Association, which represents the industry lobby in the United States, has already issued a response statement.
It says that “many countries, including Ireland, Germany, Sweden, Denmark, Australia, New Zealand and the UK have come to the conclusion that loot boxes are not gambling mechanics.” ESA also notes that it is ready to share with the senator the tools and information that the industry already has and that allow parents to control in-game expenses.
