A new proposal to protect children and problem gamblers suggests that the federal government rates games with simulated gambling be R18+ (restricted to 18 and over) and games with random loot boxes for purchase to at least carry an M (mature) rating.
Popular games like Grand Theft Auto Online and Red Dead Redemption have gambling games entwined into their core. However, these video casino games do not cost real money. On the other hand, loot boxes cost money and are random, leading to some players spending a lot of cash to acquire the things they want in the game.
Loot Boxes Explained
A loot box is a popular way for games to offer add-on purchases to extract more money from players who have purchased the games. Most players agree that loot boxes are addictive and a form of gambling, as you must spend money to see what the loot box contains.
Today loot boxes are still an option for many games; however, after extensive backlash, some games have dropped the option altogether. Some popular games that still utilize loot boxes include FIFA, Overwatch, League of Legends, Star Wars, and many more. Many games that still offer loot boxes are included in e-sports, where bettors can wager on the competitions.
18+ Online Casinos
Like popular video games, 18+ online casinos operate online, allowing players to wager money not on loot boxes but on traditional casino games. Popular online casino games include blackjack, slots, video poker, baccarat, roulette, and more.
While only a handful of domestic casinos allow players as young as 18, many online sites offer American and International players access to their games if they are over 18.
Since most online casinos accepting players over eighteen are located offshore, they ask their players to abide by local ordinances. However, more is needed to stop them if they are from a state requiring players to be over 21.
The online casino and sportsbook sites we review all accept players over 18, are proven legit, and operate under a trusted gaming commission. Our industry professionals make sure that the sites we recommend hold compliance records and offer fair odds to each of their games.
In the future, we expect to see more regulations placed on video game developers, and we also expect loot boxes will be a viable option for players who want to spend a little cash to get the most out of the games they purchase.