lootboxes

Loot boxes are digital containers used in video games that grant randomized rewards when opened. They can be earned through gameplay, purchased with real money, or bought with in-game currency. The contents are determined by random number generation and are assigned different rarity levels, such as common, rare, epic, and legendary.

Contents can be cosmetic items, such as character skins, emotes, or avatars, or sometimes functional items that affect gameplay. The distinction between cosmetic-only loot and items that affect play varies by title. Players may receive duplicates, which are often converted to in-game currency or crafting materials, and some games allow players to re-roll or upgrade items. Drop rates are sometimes disclosed, but not universally, leading to transparency concerns.

Loot boxes are a common monetization mechanism in free-to-play games and in some paid titles, especially as a source of ongoing revenue. They are often sold as bundles or through in-game stores, and some games include limited-time loot boxes tied to events. Critics argue they can encourage excessive spending and may resemble gambling, particularly for younger players.

Regulatory responses vary by jurisdiction. Some countries have introduced restrictions or bans on loot boxes or require disclosure of probabilities; others regulate them under consumer protection or gambling laws. Industry groups and platforms have called for age ratings and parental controls. Research on their effects is mixed: some studies link high spending on loot boxes with problem gambling tendencies, while others find no causal relationship.