In recent years, the gaming world has been growing exponentially. More and more games are being introduced, technology advancements are through the roof, and the number of players enjoying the thrills and spills of gaming continues to increase. The rise in popularity applies to both the traditional casino gambling industry and the more modern video gaming arena.
Through this growth and technological advancement, we have noticed a slight blurring of the lines between console and casino gaming as the two worlds collide. Key features are tending to overlap, bringing these gaming experiences closer together. One such element is the development of in-game loot boxes, which give video gamers the chance of randomised rewards.
Loot boxes, often compared to popular slot machines in land-based and online casinos due to their chance-based nature, are fueling debates in gaming communities. People discuss the similarities and differences between these mechanisms, while concerns grow about vulnerable groups like young people being exposed to unregulated gambling.
Loot Boxes
Loot boxes have become a prominent feature in many video games, prime examples include FIFA Ultimate Team, Apex Legends, and Call of Duty. They offer players randomised virtual rewards – such as weapons, skins, cosmetic upgrades, players, and team kits – in exchange for either in-game currency or, in some cases, real money.
Players have no idea what’s in the box until they open it, and this is what causes the excitement. For instance, FIFA loot boxes may contain highly sought-after players which can be traded for coins or used to strengthen their team. In Call of Duty, players may find much-needed ammo, field upgrades, weapons, and more.
Some developers may incorporate flashing lights and dramatic sound effects to boost anticipation of opening the box, which is similar to the experience of playing casino games, such as slot machines. These effects, coupled with the excitement of opening the loot box, can make it harder to stop chasing the bigger rewards, especially for young players.
Slot Machines
Different types of casino games can be primarily skill-based, such as poker or blackjack, where advanced strategies are deployed and serious players can master the gameplay. With such games, a pinch of luck is considered the cherry on top or the icing on the cake. However, switch this around, and you have the thrill and unpredictability of slot machines.
Casino slots are based purely on luck; the biggest skill you need is trying to remember the important paytable values and how to trigger the bonus features. But this isn’t a necessity, as all the information is at your fingertips within the game. Outcomes are completely random and decided through a Random Number Generator (RNG).
Third-party auditors, such as eCOGRA, are responsible for testing and monitoring all games to ensure the RNG outcomes and Return to Player (RTP) stats are compliant with fair gaming. RTP rates indicate the eventual return to a player following thousands of spins. The higher the rate, the better – most players prefer to play slots with at least a 96%+ RTP rate.
Slot machines offer players a whole host of bonus features, plus a wide range of betting options. In addition, the sound effects can be mesmerising, especially when they signal a feature trigger or celebrate a win, no matter how big or small. Again, just like with loot boxes, it’s these effects coupled with the anticipation of what’s to come on the next spin that keeps players chasing the big rewards.
Some would argue that slots can be entertaining yet still playable without putting your money at risk. There are indeed slot games on the Google Play Store that do not require real money wagering and do not include gambling elements. These games provide the excitement and fun of spinning the reels, triggering the bonuses, and enjoying a diverse range of themes and designs, all risk-free.
Regulation
Concerns were raised over a report published in 2024 by the UK Gambling Commission, which claimed over 50% of young gamers were using their own money to purchase loot boxes. While the core fundamentals of video games are not classified as gambling, there is an undeniable psychological element and comparative design technique that intertwines the two.
But it’s not just video games that have begun to emulate traditional gambling styles,. We’ve also seen an increase in the gamification of casino platforms whereby players are offered missions, loyalty rewards, and unlockable content to progress their online gambling experiences, typically mirroring a video gaming session.
With increasing concerns about the nature of loot boxes, some countries have taken a determined stance against them. Belgium issued a ban on certain loot box models, and the Netherlands fined gaming giant Electronic Arts (EA) for using them. The UK requested that developers display the odds of receiving certain items. Other nations are still evaluating their approach, but as such, there are no outright regulatory practices.
Transparency & Odds
Whereas loot boxes are sitting in a legal quagmire, known as a ‘grey area’ when it comes to regulation, slot machines are very transparent. Game providers are licensed to develop slots but must disclose the games’ expected RTP rates, thus giving players an insight into the expected returns. In addition, all games are monitored by third-party auditors to ensure fair gaming compliance.
In fairness, some game companies are changing their approach to loot boxes. Studios like Microsoft, Nintendo, and Sony have started displaying the odds of loot box items. Some games like Overwatch 2 and Fortnite have removed their loot boxes and allow players to buy the items directly, giving them greater control over spending habits.
FIFA Ultimate Team now displays pack probabilities showing the minimum rating in every pack. They also show the possibility of getting player items of certain types. This helps players determine where to place their FUT Coins and FIFA Points. In addition, some studios have added spending limits and alerts to player accounts. Others now utilise battle passes instead of random rewards.
Keep the Key Points in Mind
Both loot boxes and slot machines are based on chance. Some may argue that loot boxes are less unpredictable than slots because loot boxes are never empty. Players know they will be opening the box to find something of value. On the other hand, players cannot determine a win from any one spin on a slot machine; this comes down to the RNG outcome and a whole lot of luck.
