Jeux with Loot Boxes and Other “Paid Random Items” Re-Rated PEGI 16 as New Rules Take Effect

A pleasant surprise

The author states a firm view that loot boxes, gacha mechanics and other remaining gambling elements in games constitute a problem that should be eliminated, arguing that no game is improved by their inclusion. The normalisation of gambling through softer terminology, attractive cosmetics and, in many cases, anime-style characters is described as deeply objectionable. According to the writer, European ratings body PEGI likewise appears opposed, having introduced rule changes that raise the default age rating for games containing such mechanics to a minimum of PEGI 16.

This change enforces a plan first announced in March, intended to make predatory mechanics such as loot boxes less accessible to players. Policy manager Connor Hinde is quoted noting that existing digital-only games currently rated PEGI 3, 7 or 12 and featuring “Paid random items”, such as loot boxes, will have their age rating updated to PEGI 16 – Paid random items. It remains unclear whether PEGI is also applying other measures proposed in March, such as giving games with “time-limited” content (battle passes) a default PEGI 12 rating, awarding games with NFTs or “blockchain-related mechanisms” a PEGI 18 rating, and rating “play-by-appointment” games (those deliberately inducing FOMO as a monetisation tactic) at PEGI 12. Both Hinde’s post and an update on PEGI’s website specifically address the “Paid random items” change.

This large-scale reclassification will take time, though some rating changes have already been made: PocketGamer.biz reports that Pokémon TCG Pocket has been newly rated 16, as has Fire Emblem Heroes (notable in its series for featuring a gacha mechanic). Hinde is also quoted recognising that a high volume of rating changes will occur over a relatively short period, advising publishers and developers with questions or concerns to contact the PEGI Helpdesk for further guidance.

PEGI’s move follows the Belgian government’s treatment of paid loot boxes as outright gambling since 2018, and the New York attorney general’s 2026 suit against Valve to classify loot boxes as gambling, which Valve moved to dismiss, claiming “People enjoy surprises.” The writer concludes that greater pressure and, ideally, legislation against such practices would be welcome.