Germany's age-rating body has announced that starting January 1, new regulations will incorporate loot boxes into its video game age ratings. Loot boxes, which allow players to spend in-game credits for a chance to win random items, will now be assessed alongside factors pertinent to child protection.
The organization indicated, "In the future, in addition to content relevant to the protection of minors, possible online risks – such as purchasing or communication options – can also be taken into account in the process of statutory age marking.” Independent committees of the USK will evaluate whether certain game features may pose elevated risks for minors, particularly regarding in-game chat options or potential financial implications.
According to the updated regulations, games may receive a higher age rating if they are found to "impair or jeopardise" young people's relationship with gambling, promote gambling behaviors, desensitize players to gambling losses, or create unrealistic expectations about products.
