From Loot Boxes to Slot Machines: The Blurred Lines Between Gaming and Gambling

The video gaming industry frequently faces criticism for the loot box mechanic, likened to gambling. Loot boxes, integral to many games today, involve purchasing unknown items with real money, similar to gambling. The industry, which generated $19 billion in 2022, sees these boxes as vital, though they're controversial due to their unpredictability and potential for addiction. Social casinos mimic this model without real money payouts, employing similar psychological principles to engage users.