The Hunt for Loot: Proposed Solutions to More Effectively Regulate Addictive Gambling Mechanics in Video Games

Authors

Andrew Brewer

Abstract

Over the past decade, more and more video game developers have embraced “loot boxes” as a lucrative source of revenue. But recent concerns over the potential harms of loot boxes, particularly to children, have raised questions about their use and prompted attempts to regulate them throughout the world. This Note explores recent attempts—both foreign and domestic—to regulate loot boxes and proposes new solutions based on those strategies’ shortcomings. By carefully and competently defining terms and exceptions, and providing for more aggressive oversight of agency regulatory efforts, federally-crafted loot box legislation can more effectively protect children from predatory gambling mechanics in video games.

Recommended Citation

Andrew Brewer, The Hunt for Loot: Proposed Solutions to More Effectively Regulate Addictive Gambling Mechanics in Video Games, 29 J. L. & Pol'y 158 (2020).
Available at: https://brooklynworks.brooklaw.edu/jlp/vol29/iss1/4