UK will not ban video games loot boxes despite problem gambling findings

A child plays a video game. There had been hopes that consultation would lead to in-game rewards being classed as betting products to protect children. Photograph: Milan_Jovic/Getty Images

Loot boxes in video games will not be banned in the UK, despite a government consultation finding evidence of a “consistent” association between the features and problem gambling.

Loot boxes have attracted comparison with gambling because they allow players to spend money to unlock in-game rewards, such as special characters, weapons or outfits, without knowing what they will get.