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Ministry of Social Rights, Consumption, and Agenda 2030 of Spain, under the leadership of Pablo Bustinduy, is poised to enact significant changes in the regulatory landscape of the video gaming sector, with a particular emphasis on the contentious issue of loot boxes.
These in-game mechanisms, which allow players to purchase or earn random rewards, have sparked a global debate regarding their nature and impact, especially on younger audiences.
The ministry’s initiative to regulate loot boxes in Spain signifies a groundbreaking shift, aiming to redefine these mechanisms as a form of gambling. This categorization comes with a targeted objective: to safeguard minors from potential harm by prohibiting access to anyone under the age of 18. This move aligns with a growing international concern over the effects of gambling elements in video games, which can mimic the psychological triggers associated with traditional gambling activities.
Further enhancing their protective measures, the ministry is keen on advancing the efficacy of age verification processes for online lotteries. This initiative underscores an acknowledgment of the current system’s limitations and the imperative need to establish more stringent barriers to prevent underage participation in gambling activities.
Additionally, the ministry, in coordination with the Spanish gambling regulator (DGOJ), is considering revisions to the structure of deposit limits within the gaming and betting sector. The proposal to shift from operator-specific limits to universal daily, weekly, and monthly caps represents a strategic approach to mitigate the risk of excessive gambling. Players will no longer be able to circumvent spending restrictions by simply switching operators, as these caps will be universally applied across all platforms.
This comprehensive strategy by the ministry not only demonstrates a commitment to creating a safer gaming environment but also places Spain at the forefront of addressing the complex challenges posed by the digital age’s convergence of gaming and gambling. By focusing on these regulatory measures, Spain aims to balance the benefits of video gaming with the need to protect vulnerable populations, particularly minors, from the risks associated with gambling-like mechanisms. The ministry’s proactive stance sets a precedent for how countries can adapt their legal frameworks to the evolving nature of video games and digital entertainment.
On the same topic, you can find the guide “DLA Piper’s Global Guide on Laws Applicable to Loot Boxes in Video Gaming“.
Authors: Elisa Lorenzo and Andrea Fernandez of DLA Piper Madrid
