Players Perception of Loot Boxes

Abstract

Loot boxes are a monetization technique in games where a player pays for a randomized chance at receiving an in-game item, either cosmetic or functional. They have recently been examined as a potential object for gambling, and government regulators are examining the issue of their use in games. To explore the issue and analyze players perceptions 53 people were surveyed and played a simple loot box game with different settings. Findings include that showing item drop probabilities directly influences the opinion of players regarding the fairness of loot boxes and can affect further choice whether to open them, which supports the need for regulations on loot box use.