Video games are extremely profitable due to in-game purchases, totaling over $50 billion annually worldwide. The European Consumer Organisation is calling for a ban on in-game purchases, citing unfair practices and overspending by consumers, especially under-18 gamers. Recommendations include banning in-game currencies and adding more transparency to game age ratings. Tech and gaming companies push back, claiming in-game purchases are well-established and respect consumer laws. The complaint is fueled by the popularity of in-app purchases, particularly among children, prompting concerns over financial literacy. This is not BEUC’s first complaint against in-app currencies, having previously targeted TikTok. The focus on all video games could strengthen their case against TikTok.
