European consumer organization files complaint against gaming giants: Spending tactics criticized

The Brussels-based European Consumer Organisation (BEUC), an umbrella group for 45 consumer associations from various European countries, announced that it has filed a formal complaint with EU institutions alongside 22 members from 17 countries regarding the practices of major video game companies concerning in-game currencies.

The statement, which claims that major companies including Activision Blizzard, Electronic Arts, Epic Games, Mojang Studios, Roblox Corporation, Supercell, and Ubisoft—owners of games such as Fortnite, EA Sports FC 24, Minecraft, and Clash of Clans—engage in unfair practices, asserts that these gaming companies are violating EU consumer protection laws.

'INABILITY TO SEE PRODUCT COSTS LEADS TO OVERSPENDING'

The statement reported that while firms are expected to provide a safe gaming environment for consumers, the video game industry uses in-game currencies to maximize consumer spending.

Noting that when in-game currencies are used, consumers cannot see the real cost of digital products, which leads to overspending, the statement emphasized that in-game purchases should always be displayed in real currency.

39 EUROS SPENT MONTHLY ON IN-GAME PURCHASES

The statement further argued that in-game currencies involve unfair terms that benefit game developers, adding, "Children are vulnerable to these manipulative tactics."

Recalling that children in Europe spend an average of 39 euros per month on in-game purchases, the statement highlighted that children can be easily misled by virtual currencies.

News Source: 12punto