Connect with us
728x90 banner available here

Latest News

UKGC Report Reopens Loot Box Debate: Will Video Game Developers Have to Follow UK Online Casino Standards?

Published

on

Reading Time: 3 minutes

 

The continued crossovers between video games and the casino industry have had some unintended consequences according to the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC). Outlined in a recent report on children and gambling trends, the UKGC found that loot boxes could be harmful to minors. Although the latest study showed a decrease in gambling participation among 11-to-16-year-olds, the data suggests that the risks to children have increased. As per the findings, 31% of those surveyed have opened a loot box, while 3% say they’ve placed an in-game bet.

Are In-Game Add-Ons a Gamble?

For the government, the issue of loot boxes has been a talking point since 2017. Identifying an emerging trend among video game developers, Connor Rhys Deeley submitted an online petition to have loot boxes discussed in parliament. In writing his petition, Deeley argued that the in-game add-ons often contain prizes that are worth less than the purchase price. Citing a 2017 law passed in China, Deeley said that the boxes are, in essence, a form of gambling and should, therefore, be regulated by the UKGC.

Addressing the situation, then Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Tracey Crouch pointed to the UKGC previous statement on loot boxes.

“Where items obtained in a computer game can be traded or exchanged outside the game platform, they acquire a monetary value, and where facilities for gambling with such items are offered to consumers located in Britain a Gambling Commission licence is required,” concluded the government and the UKGC.

UKGC Guidelines Don’t Apply

By stating loot box prizes don’t have any real world value, the conclusion was that they fall outside of the UKGC’s regulatory remit. As it stands, any operator wanting to offer betting services in the UK must abide by a strictest of  guidelines. For example, 2005 regulations state that gaming companies don’t have to meet a statutory minimum payout percentage. However, they must clearly display the amount a player can, in theory, expect to win (known as the return to player/RTP). In essence, this rule is designed to give players the power to decide how much risk they want to expose themselves to.

In fact, this drive to give consumers more information has been a cornerstone of the UKGC’s policies over the last few years. Today UK casino and betting operators must provide clear and concise insights into every aspect of their product. From their payout structures and software suppliers to the terms and conditions attached to bonuses, everything has to be transparent and fair. Without meeting the expected standards, an operator risks receiving a fine or having their licence revoked. However, when it comes to video game companies, the same standards aren’t in place. For those entering the casino world, a UKGC licence is mark of quality, but no such label applies in the gaming sector.

Regulators Must Set the Standard

This disparity is something that campaigners have been pushing to address over the last 12 months. With loot boxes sharing similarities with casino games such as scratchcards or monetised versions of Deal or No Deal, many argue that UKGC standards should apply. In their defence, video game developers have said that loot boxes aren’t an integral part of a player’s experience.

“A player’s ability to succeed in the game is not dependent on purchasing crates. Players can also earn crates through playing the game and not spending any money at all,” a spokesperson for EA told Eurogamer.net.

However, the figures would seem to suggest otherwise. In addition to the UKGC’s report showing that 31% of child gamers have used loot boxes, estimates project that loot box revenue will hit £32 billion by 2022. Reviewing the current trend, analysts at Juniper Research found that more people are now taking part in so-called skin betting than ever before.

“These items have value depending on rarity and popularity within game communities. On PCs, skins are traded for real money via Steam’s Marketplace; the platform has 125 million registered users globally,” Lauren Foye of Juniper Research said in April 2018.

Licensed Loot Boxes May Happen in 2019

In light of the latest findings, the government is likely to face more tough questions regarding the regulation of loot boxes. In Belgium, ministers have already agreed that the boxes are a form of gambling. British politicians may soon take the same position. Indeed, with the protection of minors something the UKGC has been working hard on in recent times, the recent report will give those in power cause for concern. If that proves to be the case, we may see video game companies become subject to the same controls as UK online casino operators.


Source: Latest News on European Gaming Media Network

George Miller (Gyorgy Molnar) started his career in content marketing and has started working as an Editor/Content Manager for our company in 2016. George has acquired many experiences when it comes to interviews and newsworthy content becoming Head of Content in 2017. He is responsible for the news being shared on multiple websites that are part of the European Gaming Media Network.

Latest News

1spin4win presents a new Samurai tale in the Japanese saga with Way of Honor Hold and Win

Published

on

Reading Time: 2 minutes

1spin4win, a classic online slot provider, unfolds the Japanese novel with Way of Honor Hold and Win — the third chapter of the series, revealing the Samurai part of the story.

The new title has been selected for exclusive pre-release by partner casinos, including Irwin, Gizbo, Jet, Izzi, and Fresh. This follows the pattern set by the two earlier entries in the series — Tiger’s Steps Hold and Win, the top-performing April release by bet sum, and Gentle Fox Hold and Win. This indicates that the collection’s blend of well-balanced gameplay and captivating storytelling continues to resonate with the audience.

Being the third installment of the saga, Way of Honor Hold and Win advances the narrative by giving voice to yet-unheard characters — honorable samurai Mizuiro and Midoriiro. Devoted warriors, they pledged unwavering loyalty to the shogun and the powerful Masahide family. Their moral compass is the Way of Honor — a sacred samurai code that guides them to defend the ruler’s right to maintain peace and the balance of power. Every day, at the crack of dawn, the samurai rise to protect the shogun’s castle and ancient scrolls that hold the secrets of longevity.

Olga Bogdanova, the Art Director at 1spin4win, shared, “Way of Honor Hold and Win is a worthy continuation of our Japanese slot series, united by a shared storyline. By crafting a rich and detailed samurai-themed narrative, we aimed to offer players more than just standard reel-spinning. Instead, we invite them to become active participants in the story, who can take sides, make decisions, and influence the course of events. We hope they enjoy the game’s immersive atmosphere and generous winning opportunities.”

However, the meticulously crafted plot is only one of the things the latest Japanese slot can boast. It remains faithful to 1spin4win’s key hallmarks — well-balanced math, transparent mechanics, and minimalist design. Way of Honor Hold and Win is a medium-volatility game featuring 243 paylines, a 97.1% RTP, and a x1,300 max multiplier.

The main attraction of the new title is the Hold and Win round, popular with players for the thrill of anticipation and the chance to win big. Triggered by three or more gold Coins on the 5×3 layout, the Bonus game offers three starting respins and two Jackpots — the x100 Minipot Coin or the x1,000 Megapot.

About 1spin4win

1spin4win is a fast-growing game provider founded in May 2021 by ambitious developers with over 15 years of experience in the gambling industry. Since its inception, the company has expanded its portfolio to include over 150 classic online slots, all characterized by quality mathematics, transparent mechanics, and well-balanced gameplay — key factors that drive strong player retention. The studio consistently releases an average of four new games each month and offers effective promotional tools for casino operators to help them enhance player loyalty.

The post 1spin4win presents a new Samurai tale in the Japanese saga with Way of Honor Hold and Win appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

Continue Reading

Latest News

Riddick’s Partners Announced as Main Sponsor of LEGENDS by Fire & Ice

Published

on

Reading Time: < 1 minute

 

Riddick’s Partners Backs LEGENDS’ Exclusive Takeover of London’s Most Iconic Nightclub, The BOX, on July 1st

The organizers of LEGENDS by Fire & Ice are thrilled to announce Riddick’s Partners as the Main Sponsor of this year’s exclusive iGaming networking event, taking place at London’s most iconic nightlife destination, The BOX Soho, on Tuesday, July 1st.

This partnership brings together two legends of the iGaming industry for an unforgettable night of elite networking, unique entertainment, and high-energy celebration ahead of iGB L!VE 2025. With over 200 iGaming legends and veterans already confirmed on the guest list, LEGENDS by Fire & Ice promises to be the must-attend event of London iGaming Week.

Riddick’s Partners, known for their cutting-edge solutions and influential presence in the gaming sector, will host premium tables right in front of the stage, offering attendees the chance to connect with their team, explore high-value opportunities and have a drink!

“We supported LEGENDS by Fire & Ice because we share the values of a community built on real results and strong partnerships. At Riddick’s Partners, we focus on traffic that drives product growth and connections that truly work.” – Misha, Head of Affiliates at Riddick’s Partners.

“Riddick’s reputation for excellence and innovation mirrors everything we stand for—uniting the industry’s best in an unforgettable experience. We can’t wait to see the connections (and legendary moments!) that unfold during the evening. Welcome to the LEGENDS family!” – Jodie Thind, Co-Organizer

A limited number of private tables are still available for legendary brands looking to host clients or teams.

The post Riddick’s Partners Announced as Main Sponsor of LEGENDS by Fire & Ice appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

Continue Reading

Latest News

iGB L!VE on course for record breaking attendance as delegates head for London

Published

on

Reading Time: 2 minutes

 

iGaming industry professionals are registering for iGB L!VE in unprecedented numbers according to the latest data released by show organisers Clarion Gaming.  A week ahead of iGB L!VE opening at its new ExCeL London home pre-registration is up by 21.5% compared to the same stage in 2024 – the last edition of iGB L!VE to be held in Amsterdam.

The double digit uplift confirms iGB L!VE’s status as the most popular and valuable showcase for the international iGaming industry with unique attendance on track to grow for a fourth consecutive year.

As well as providing attendees with access to over 22,000sqm of product innovation, iGB L!VE will include the TED of iGaming comprising 30 inspiring sessions and a keynote delivered by Claire Williams OBE, the former leader of the Williams Formula 1 racing team, Pitch iGB featuring five leading startups seeking investment and strategic partnerships, the ground-breaking Sustainable Gambling Zone which will showcase the latest thinking on player protection, as well as London iGaming Week which comprises a program of immersive curated events, seminars and parties taking place at iconic London venues.

Running 1 – 4 July London iGaming Week features social events such as the Cool Britannia themed iGB Affiliate Awards hosted by the broadcaster and musician Myleene Klass MBE, the EGR B2B Awards, Welcome Drinks in Canary Wharf, the Legends by Fire and ICE celebration, the first London LMG Futbol Experience a live-streamed 6-a-side football tournament taking place Friday 4th July and a partnership with the Hippodrome Casino which will see iGB L!VE delegates and exhibitors receive a complementary drink on presentation of their iGB L!VE pass and a 25% discount at the Hippodrome’s award winning Heliot Steak House and Chop Chop restaurants.

The program also includes unique opportunities to network and learn at events including the iGB Start-Up Accelerator, the Affiliate and Operator Mixer and Technology in Gaming and the inaugural conference for senior technology professionals sponsored by Pretty Technical and taking place on Tuesday 1 July.

Connecting igaming operators, affiliates, tech vendors and game providers,  iGB L!VE will welcome an international community of iGaming and affiliate pioneers helping businesses throughout the ecosystem to navigate the iGaming landscape, provide networking opportunities, showcase cutting-edge innovations and share crucial market knowledge.

The post iGB L!VE on course for record breaking attendance as delegates head for London appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

Continue Reading

Trending

EEGaming.org is part of HIPTHER, parent brand of various prominent news outlets and international conferences. These platforms and events span a wide range of industries, including Entertainment, Technology, Gaming and Gambling, Blockchain, Artificial Intelligence, Fintech, Quantum Technology, Legal Cannabis, Health and Lifestyle, VR/AR, eSports, and several others. This indicates that EEGaming.org is part of a larger network that focuses on a diverse array of sectors, particularly those related to cutting-edge technology and modern lifestyle trends.

Contact us: [email protected]

Editorial / PR Submissions: [email protected]

Copyright © 2015 - 2025 HIPTHER. All Rights Reserved. Registered in Romania under Proshirt SRL, Company number: 2134306, EU VAT ID: RO21343605. Office address: Blvd. 1 Decembrie 1918 nr.5, Targu Mures, Romania

We are constantly showing banners about important news regarding events and product launches. Please turn AdBlock off in order to see these areas.