The European Parliament told Davis to “avoid designing games that feed addiction”.
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- The European Parliament has voted to call on the European Commission to investigate various issues in the gaming industry, such as loot boxes and other addictive aspects of games.
- Parliament has asked developers to “avoid designing games that are addictive.” Additionally, similar rules may be combined to fit the EU’s single market.
- The PEGI rating system could also see improvements to provide more clarity to parents. A system has also been requested to help parents record how much time and money a child spends on the game.
- Other activities, such as gold mining, will be analyzed to see if they are consistent with human rights abuses and financial crimes.
The inclusion of loot boxes and addictive microtransactions gradually entered the realm of gaming along with the evolution of many visual and gameplay aspects. With the increase in scope in titles came various ways of monetizing franchises to ensure profitability and longevity. However, several government agencies have recently started taking action.
Recently, the European Parliament has shown interest in analyzing, investigating and taking measures against many harmful and addictive features in games such as loot boxes. The European Parliament voted today to request the European Commission to examine various issues and solutions for the gaming industry.
Reported by games industry, MEP Adriana Maldonado López led the report, with 577 votes in favour, 56 against and 15 abstentions. The report included calls for a system that would be more helpful for parents to record how much time and money a child spends on a game.
Furthermore, it also includes proposals for rules to be adapted to the European Union’s single market. The PEGI rating system used in European regions was highlighted as an example that could be improved and provide better details to parents.
MEPs urge game developers to avoid developing games in a way that perpetuates any gaming addiction. MEP Adriana Maldonado Lopez noted to the devs that “Avoid designing games that feed addiction.He cited the WHO’s acceptance of gaming disorder among some users as an example of gaming addiction.
Our industry is committed to a fair and transparent user experience when playing video games. European players have more amazing games to choose from than ever before, thanks to the industry’s evolving business models. Regulators must protect the right to access these cultural products while maintaining Europe’s high level of consumer protection,” the Interactive Software Federation of Europe and the European Game Developers Federation noted in a joint statement to the games industry.
The report also emphasizes predatory monetization features in video games such as loot boxes. The European Parliament has voted for a commission to investigate the harmful impact of loot boxes, in-game purchases as a result of provocations, and take action if necessary.
Additionally, MEPs also voted to investigate gold farming, the activity of earning real-life money by selling in-game currency. Gold farming will be analyzed to see if it is compatible with any financial crimes and human rights violations.
Many government agencies have started cracking down on loot boxes and other harmful elements that come with video games. For example, six Dutch political parties expressed interest in legally banning loot boxes last year. Additionally, Democrats are pushing for various incentives to ban loot boxes for minors.
What are your thoughts on the European Parliament proactively taking various measures to curb loot boxes, gaming addiction, etc.? Do you think other public institutions around the world will soon follow in the footsteps of the European Parliament? Let us know what you think in the comments below.
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