Game producer EA does not see the problem, but according to the Gaming Authority (KSA), the FIFA Ultimate Team packages are covered by gambling.
In the FIFA games, the surprise packs – also called lootboxes – offered against payment with fictitious money or paid FIFA points. Its content is always unknown. The packages can be sold online, which means that the content can be converted into money. “We mainly see problems when minors are exposed to gambling in this way,” the KSA says Reporter Radio.
Long legal battle
However, the Gaming Authority has been unable to ban the loot boxes for years. “If we come to the conclusion that something falls under gambling, we can impose a sanction or fine. But if the producer does not agree, you will have a long legal battle,” said the KSA. The fine that the KSA can impose can be up to 10 percent of the company’s turnover.
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1.5 billion sales in a year
The packages are a golden trade for producer EA. In the past financial year, 1.5 billion euros in turnover was booked. “We disagree with the Gaming Authority’s view and regret their position regarding lootboxes. Our games are safe, fair and players should be able to play the game as part of a healthy lifestyle,” said EA.
A new law, the Remote Gambling Act, allowing companies to legally offer online gambling games in the Netherlands under strict conditions.
Valve did stop it
Gamemaker Valve stopped in the popular games Counter-Strike: Global Offensive and Dota 2 in the Netherlands with the sale of lootboxes, after the KSA threatened with fines.
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