REPSONSIBLE GAMING
Conclusion Protecting minors from the potential harms of real-money gaming is not only ethical but also brings significant benefits to gaming platforms themselves. Robust age verification and other measures to prevent underage access cultivate a safer, more positive environment that attracts and retains responsible adult players. In addition to minimizing legal risks, including costly fines, license revocations, and lawsuits from regulators and parents, these practices demonstrate commitment to social responsibility. Protecting minors can significantly boost a platform’s reputation and brand image. In an era of heightened scrutiny around online safety and ethical business practices, platforms that prioritize robust age verification measures position themselves as industry leaders in corporate social responsibility.
brains are still developing and lack the executive function to regulate impulses, are particularly vulnerable. The normalization of these practices at an early age can desensitize them to the risks associated with gambling and potentially lay the foundation for future compulsive behaviors. Game companies should adopt ethical design principles that prioritize player well-being over profits. These practices include designing games that do not leverage or encourage compulsive behavior, excessive spending, or excessive play. Responsible companies will shield young players from microtransaction promotions and loot box offers. They will highlight non-randomized means to obtain valuable in-game items and advance to higher levels. These achievements can be based on players’ skills or time invested, reducing the attraction of luck-based shortcuts and the lure of “gambling” on loot boxes.
DAVID B. HOPPE Managing Partner, Gamma Law
For information contact ssmith@gammalaw.com +1 (415) 901-0510
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