The Gaming Industry's Deceptive Defense of Loot Boxes

The Australian House of Representatives recently held public hearings on online gambling, including loot boxes in video games. Trade groups, such as the International Social Games Association and the Interactive Games and Entertainment Association, presented their defense of loot boxes, which was largely predictable. They claimed existing consumer protection laws could address the issue, and that most players enjoy loot boxes. However, their arguments were flawed, and they failed to acknowledge the harm caused by loot boxes. The industry's refusal to self-regulate and its attempts to mislead lawmakers have only reinforced concerns about the impact of loot boxes on players, particularly children. The trade groups' testimony highlighted their priority of protecting the status quo over player welfare, and their lack of interest in finding meaningful solutions to the problem.