'Loot boxes' in video games could be banned amid accusations they encourage children to gamble

The government could ban loot boxes amid accusations they allow children to gamble. Officials have launched a new consultation into the technology and whether it is damaging children who play games like Fifa, which include them. Loot boxes – which are known under a variety of different names in individual games – allow people to buy a collection of items without knowing what will be inside of them. After a person has bought one, either with real money or by playing, they receive whatever is inside, which could include in-game items that can be sold for real currency. Critics argue that the technology allows children to gamble and encourages such behaviour. A number of child welfare organisations, charities and other groups have warned that the technology could lead to addiction later in life.