Are video game loot boxes encouraging children to gamble?

Experts have argued that'loot boxes' in video games are a form of gambling. One psychologist has said that the boxes, which regularly appear in games for children and can be bought with real money, are'literally slot machines'. Loot boxes feature in many modern games, including popular shooter Overwatch and football simulator Fifa 18, which are rated PEGI 12 and 3 respectively in the UK. The boxes are regularly given to players when they level up or accomplish certain tasks, and when opened give users a random in-game reward. On top of boxes earned through playing, gamers can also buy them with real money, causing some to argue publishers are using the same tactics as casinos to take thousands from gamers every year.