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Nearly half of gamers call for restrictions on Microtransactions

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4 years ago

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  • 33% of gamers purchased a microtransaction (MTX) or loot box at least once a week, with 25-34 year olds most likely to purchase (45%) 
  • Xbox users are slightly more likely to make in-game purchases than PlayStation owners 
  • Call of Duty was labelled the worst offender for MTX by almost a third (29%) of gamers
 
Almost half (49%) of gaming fans agree that an 18+ age limit should be set for pay-to-access content, according to new research.

The survey, commissioned by gaming publisher, WePC, reveals how gamers are feeling since the pandemic and follows the recent investigation on loot boxes in Belgium, as more European authorities consider banning them altogether.

Microtransactions and gambling 

Over a third (33%) of UK gamers purchase a microtransaction or loot box at least once a week, with nearly 1 in 10 (8%) spending over £100 on each purchase occasion. Younger gamers aged 16-24 admitted to spending £17 above the national average of £36. Nearly two-thirds (60%) of this age group also claimed their gaming expenditure in general has seen an increase during the pandemic.

Although a large majority of respondents (69%) agreed that loot boxes promote gambling to younger gamers, only 19% called for them to be banned altogether. Users felt that along with the age limit, a cap on the amount that could be spent (43%) and restrictions on the impact paid content has on core gameplay (26%) would be more effective. Call of Duty was ranked the nation’s least favourite microtransaction offender (29%), followed by FIFA (28%) and Candy Crush (26%)

But some gamers claim it depends on the game in question.

“In COD, your MTX are based around gun skins and animations, so it doesn’t directly affect your abilities to play,” says Leeds-based gamer, Josh Allen.

“FIFA, on the other hand, makes multiplayer experiences so much worse. You can play against someone who has paid to have a better team, which makes them impossible to beat, even if they’re less skilled at the game. That’s why I’ve given up playing FIFA altogether. COD, on the other hand, you can pay for aesthetic but winning is still based on skill.”

Leeds was revealed to be the capital city of microtransactions too (42%), followed closely by Brighton (41%) and London (39%).

Plymouth’s gaming community were the least likely to make in-game purchases (21%), along with Glasgow (23%) and Southampton (24%).

Post-pandemic gaming  

Whilst restrictions may have started easing in the UK, reduction in social interaction has had both a financial and emotional impact on gamers.

Nearly half (47%) have admitted their gaming expenditure has increased during the pandemic, with the majority of money going to new video games (38%), online subscriptions (19%) and gaming equipment (19%).

Around 1 in 5 Xbox, Mobile, Nintendo and PC gamers say they spend most of their gaming expenditure on microtransactions.

However, it was Nintendo users that spent the most on loot boxes compared to any other console, with an average of £56 spent per purchase. PC gamers followed closely behind, spending an average of £51 per MTX.

Sophie, an avid Animal Crossing fan and regular Nintendo gamer, has doubled her gaming expenditure since restrictions first came into place last year.

“I’m playing more games so making my way through my library quicker. I’m also buying games so that I can play online with friends and fill in that social gap.”

Will Blears, Marketing Director at WePC said:

 “As gamers ourselves, we understand that gaming is skill-based experience and it’s clear from the research that gamers are currently forced to buy into MTX and loot boxes to gain advantages within that experience.” 

“The European laws coming into place highlight the concern that is clear, from our survey data, is echoed around the gaming community. Loot boxes could definitely be a gateway into the darker side of gambling and creators need to factor in safety to make sure gaming continues to be enjoyable for all.” 

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Gambling in the USA

Gaming Americas Weekly Roundup – June 9-15

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4 hours ago

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June 17, 2025

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Welcome to our weekly roundup of American gambling news again! Here, we are going through the weekly highlights of the American gambling industry which include the latest news and new partnerships. Read on and get updated.

Latest News

BMM Innovation Group, a technology conglomerate focused on gaming product compliance testing, cybersecurity solutions and virtual training for the global gaming industry, announced that it is exhibiting at the Perú Gaming Show 2025, June 18–19 at the Centro de Exposiciones Jockey in Lima, Perú. BMM’s local experts will be available at Booth No. 31–32 to discuss the Company’s full suite of testing, certification, cybersecurity and virtual training services for Perú’s growing gaming industry. With a well-established land-based sector and a rapidly expanding online gaming market, Perú represents one of the most dynamic jurisdictions in Latin America. BMM has supported the Peruvian gaming industry for more than 18 years, with a dedicated office in Lima since 2007. The Company’s deep roots and compliance expertise make it uniquely positioned to serve the diverse needs of Perú’s casinos, sports betting operators, lottery providers and online gaming programmes.

Amusnet is set to make a powerful impression at the Peru Gaming Show 2025, taking place on June 18-19 in Lima, by presenting a comprehensive portfolio across its Online Casino, Live Casino, and Land-based verticals. As one of the most prominent and influential gaming exhibitions in Latin America, PGS brings together the industry’s leading providers, manufacturers and decision-makers for two days of impactful business exchange. Amusnet is also sponsoring the LMG Futbol Experience on June 17, held just before the exhibition, showcasing involvement in local events and its engagement in supporting industry-wide collaboration.

International Game Technology PLC announced that its spectacular RISE55 cabinet is now live on casino floors across the US. With robust, performance-focused content roadmaps for the premium-leased and for-sale game segments, IGT’s RISE55 cabinet debuted with the highly entertaining Magic Treasures Gold game. The RISE55 cabinet features a 55-inch ultra-HD curved display that delivers crisp graphics, enhanced audio technology and remarkable player comfort. The RISE55 cabinet first hit casino floors in late May, with additional deployments planned through the summer. As the hardware’s Class III premium launch title, Magic Treasures Gold is a visually stunning multi-level progressive game with features that build upon the success of IGT’s award-winning Magic Treasures game, including a leveled-up version of the Money Ball feature.

Partnerships

Hard Rock Cafe, in partnership with international soccer icon Lionel Messi, launched new merchandise coinciding with one of the year’s most anticipated global soccer tournaments. The collection debuts as part of Hard Rock’s “WE PLAY TOGETHER” campaign, which unites soccer fans to celebrate the sport. The campaign will feature special experiences and exclusive offers, such as bundle deals combining themed Messi menu and retail items, for guests to watch each match and show support for their favourite teams. Lionel Messi announced the collection via an Instagram post, where he donned one of the custom tees now available for purchase.

PrizePicks, the largest daily fantasy sports operator in North America, announced that it has partnered with the Los Angeles Dodgers as the team’s Official DFS Partner. The partnership features several digital and in-stadium activations at Dodger Stadium as PrizePicks continues to strengthen its brand presence in baseball.

The post Gaming Americas Weekly Roundup – June 9-15 appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

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Conferences

PIN-UP Global to Participate in IGB L!VE London

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6 hours ago

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June 17, 2025

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International iGaming holding PIN-UP Global will participate in IGB L!VE, one of the industry’s premier events taking place July 2-3 in London. Booth K40, spanning 168 square meters, will feature two distinct zones – PIN-UP Global and PIN-UP Partners. The holding will create valuable networking opportunities for industry professionals.

Visitors to the PIN-UP Global booth will have the opportunity to meet with the holding’s teams to explore the B2B portfolio designed to boost operational performance and drive business growth in the iGaming sector. The holding’s team will focus on growing its partner network and demonstrating the company’s latest technological developments.

PIN-UP Global team will be on hand throughout the event to explore potential investment opportunities and discuss partnerships with promising startups. The holding continues to identify and support promising teams developing innovative solutions in MarTech, iGaming, FinTech, AI/ML, and analytics.

PIN-UP Partners is joining iGB Affiliate London with top-performing offers, exclusive merch, and proven partnership models. Recognized as the Best iGaming Affiliate Program by AW’2024, MAC’2024, and SiGMA’22, PIN-UP Partners team is ready to build strong, long-term partnerships.

For industry professionals seeking new career opportunities, HR representatives from PIN-UP Global will be present at the event. Interested candidates can book meetings to discuss current openings within the international holding.

With the holding growing rapidly — a remarkable 58% just over the past year — new opportunities and prospects are opening up every day, both for existing team members and for those looking to join. As a result, the holding is actively seeking strong specialists for managerial positions, as well as professionals in tech, marketing, media buying, and more. Visit our booth to become part of the PIN-UP Global team.

For convenient meeting scheduling with holding representatives, exhibition delegates can use the touchscreen booking system and conduct meetings in specially equipped meeting rooms.

PIN-UP Global welcomes all IGB L!VE London attendees – industry experts, potential partners, and talented professionals – to connect with their team during the event to discuss tech solutions, collaboration opportunities, and career prospects.

PIN-UP Global is an international iGaming holding company specialising in developing and implementing advanced technologies, B2B solutions, and innovative products for the iGaming industry.

The post PIN-UP Global to Participate in IGB L!VE London appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.

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Latest News

Nolimit City boards a wild ride at 35,000 feet in Flight Mode

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6 hours ago

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June 17, 2025

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Dear passengers, welcome aboard Flight NLC25! Flight Mode is cleared for takeoff and let’s just say, it’s not a typical family trip to Hawaii. After delivering signature slots like Tombstone Slaughter: El Gordo’s Revenge and Duck Hunters, Nolimit City is now taking it to the skies with Flight Mode and definitely not in a boring way.

Imagine having a crying baby as your only soundtrack, permanent turbulence and a seatmate who thinks deodorant is optional. The Bud Jet airline might not get you from A to B but it’ll drop you into a feature-packed slot and the kind of excitement you can always expect when playing a Nolimit City slot.

In Flight Mode, winning combinations will explode, making room for new symbols to drop in. With every win, the next multiplier value climbs by +1 and applies to new symbols that fall in.

Wild Symbol: The regular Wild symbol that can land on any reel and substitute for any regular symbol.

Multiplier Increaser: Triggered when they land and add its value to the next multiplier value. Multiplier values of symbols are 2x, 3x, 4x, 5x and 10x.

Golden Multiplier Increaser: Triggered when it lands and doubles the value of the next multiplier.

Explosive items are strictly prohib… well, not on this aircraft. The Bomb symbol clears all regular paying symbols on its reel and row when there are no winning combinations. Only Scatter and Wild symbols are saved from the explosions.

Apologies dear passengers, the lavatory is currently occupied! The signature xHole™ is back in Flight Mode, this time disguised as a toilet. All symbols from the main reels are flushed down and then spat out to random positions with the next multiplier value. Just to add an extra twist to it, xHole™ then transforms itself into a Wild symbol that also gets the next multiplier value. Not so hygienic…

 

Flee Spins

This is the captain speaking – we’re going down! Prepare your life jacket and be ready for a spontaneous meet-up with the sharks during Flee Spins! Land 3, 4, or 5 Scatter Symbols to trigger 6, 9, or 12 Flee Spins, respectively.

Upgrade your seat to Bud Jet’s nice price class when purchasing one of these Nolimit Boosters:

-Print Spins: guarantees a spin that starts off with a 30x multiplier on each paying symbol.

-Printier Spins: guarantees a spin that starts off with a 268x multiplier on each paying symbol.
-Printiest Spins: guarantees a spin that starts off with a 911x multiplier on each paying symbol.

No legroom, no peanuts – but you do get Extra Spins. After a round ends, players may get the option to purchase an additional spin, maintaining the current multiplier state of all previously landed symbols.

The special xGod™ mechanic is locked away disguised as passports on the bottom row, secured behind bulletproof glass and a seatbelt that actually works. Each Bomb explosion breaks the panel of its respective reel, bringing you one step closer to landing a Max Win.

The maximum payout of Flight Mode is 5,051x the base bet. Flight Mode is rated as “Extremely Volatile” delivering the thrilling high-stakes gameplay that Nolimit City fans know and love.

Per Lindheimer, Head of Product at Nolimit City, said: “This isn’t your standard trip from A to B. Flight Mode is what happens when you let a slot company rewrite the in-flight safety manual, handing out dynamite instead of peanuts.”

‘Flight Mode’ will be available to all Nolimit City partners on June 17th, 2025.

The post Nolimit City boards a wild ride at 35,000 feet in Flight Mode appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

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