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The Australian Government has announced changes to the way video games are classified in Australia. Starting from September 22nd, 2024, two new rules will apply to games that include “in-game purchases with an element of chance,” such as loot boxes [now M], and games that feature “simulated gambling,” like casino games [now R18+].
So a game that has a casino in it, regardless of whether it needs the player to spend real money or not, is going to have to be rated R18+? I wonder what this means for games like Mario on the DS or some Mario Party titles.
Also, “in-game purchases with an element of chance,” does that mean any element of chance or a chance to not win? As an example, if I spend money for a currency in a gacha game, and then trade that currency for some character pulls, does that count? There is an element of chance, but I am guaranteed to win something. Essentially, I paid for a character, and I still get a character, I just don’t know which one I will get. I am curious if there is any nuance to this choice or if they just used the black and white blanket like most politicians do.
EDIT: Also, lol at anyone thinking kids care about the rating system. You all know you played GTA when you were like 7.
Yes. A real money purchase that leads to randomised rewards counts.
I think the government could definitely be doing more, but I don’t think it’s a bad thing to force companies to clearly disclose the nature of their products so consumers can make informed choices.
I think maybe a better thing to do is to include a new label for the cover of the game box and digital storefronts stating something like “This game contains simulated or real gambling,” rather than an instant R18+ rating. Mario Party being R18+ for example is a bit excessive, IMO.
That probably would be a better solution. Particularly since the rating system is pretty easy to ignore. And if they do start slapping the R18+ rating on games that don’t really warrant it like Mario Party, people will be more likely to simply dismiss the entire system.
I would hope that the government and ratings board wouldn’t be that stupid, but look at how long it took to give us an R rating for video games in the first place.
Kids don’t care about the rating system, it’s the parents that see the label and second guess their decision.