Three major video game console makers—Nintendo, Microsoft and Sony—say they will require game makers to disclose the odds of receiving specific items in loot boxes.
Loot boxes are sold by game publishers and contain various random game items of value to avid players. Since some items are deemed more valuable than others, the purchase of the loot boxes is seen by critics as a form of gambling.
The agreement was announced at a forum on video gaming by Entertainment Software Association Chief Counsel Michael Warnecke who said that the three major console makers “have indicated to ESA a commitment to new platform policies with respect to the use of paid loot boxes in games that are developed for their platforms.”
“Specifically, this would apply to new games and game updates that add loot box features,” Warnecke said. “And it would require the disclosure of the relative rarity or probabilities of obtaining randomized virtual items on their platforms.”
The ESA said the console makers “are targeting 2020 for the implementation of the policy.”
Warnecke also said that many game publishers in the association have agreed to voluntarily disclose such things as odds for their own games, but did not name specific companies.
However, a later press release said Activision Blizzard, Bandai Namco Entertainment, Bethesda, Bungie, Electronic Arts… Take-Two Interactive, Ubisoft, Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, and Wizards of the Coast” are among the major publishers that will start disclosing loot box odds “by the end of 2020.”
Apple has required similar odds disclosures in its iOS App Store games since late 2017 and Google began requiring odds for games on Android’s Play Store in May.
Several countries such as China and South Korea also require loot box equipped games sold in those countries to disclose odds.
