UKIE Reveals 11 Recommendations to Restrict Sale of Loot Boxes

In efforts to address the ongoing controversy surrounding loot boxes, UK games industry trade association UKIE has unveiled 11 new recommendations aimed at limiting their sale to vulnerable individuals. These industry principles, published by UKIE and endorsed by the Technical Working Group – a body established by the UK Department for Culture, Media and Sport, will impose restrictions on the use of loot boxes for game developers associated with UKIE. Although these recommendations are not legally binding, they are expected to contribute towards achieving the objectives set forth in the Government’s response to the loot box Call for Evidence.

While the adoption of UKIE’s recommendations does not guarantee their transformation into law, government officials are poised to take them seriously. The 11 principles emphasize the importance of “increasing player protections and transparency”, asserting that this responsibility extends to the entire video games sector. Notably, one of the recommendations calls for the implementation of technological controls that would effectively prevent individuals under the age of 18 from acquiring loot boxes without parental consent or knowledge.

Another significant recommendation is the requirement for games to disclose clear probabilities associated with loot boxes. This change would have widespread implications, particularly for gacha games like Genshin Impact and Honkai Star Rail. Even a prominent game like HoYoverse would need to adapt if probability disclosures became mandatory under law, as it seeks to maintain its presence in the UK games market.

UKIE also advocates for lenient refund policies, a measure that would provide much-needed flexibility for gamers across the UK. While there is no certainty that these recommendations will be enacted into law, UKIE has actively ensured that discussions surrounding loot boxes continue to remain at the forefront of industry conversations.

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