The UK Advertising Standards Authority issued an enforcement notice requiring clear disclosure of loot boxes in mobile-game advertising and digital store listings. The ASA said active compliance monitoring will begin on 26 May, with possible enforcement against non-compliant businesses.
Mobile-game publishers must make loot box disclosures prominent in advertising and store listings before monitoring begins.
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New York Attorney General Letitia James filed a lawsuit against Valve Corporation, alleging that loot boxes in its video games constitute illegal gambling. Her office seeks to stop the features and recover profits and fines; the complaint argues that paid random rewards can be traded for money.
A court in Brazil’s Federal District ordered international game companies to pay R$298 million over loot boxes, according to the report. The decision also requires measures including age checks, clearer odds information and accessible refund mechanisms; appeals remain possible. The Entertainment Software Association said the industry already uses safeguards and is developing additional protections.
New Zealand’s Parliament passed the Online Casino Gambling Bill at its third and final reading; it awaits Royal assent and is due to take effect on 1 May, according to the report. The Department of Internal Affairs is expected to issue up to 15 licences from early 2027, while existing operators may continue until 1 December but cannot advertise in the country. Further licensing guidance is due on 1 May.
Aristocrat Interactive demonstrated a mobile adaptation of Buffalo Ultimate Stampede, according to the preview. The game is planned for an online launch in Q1 2027, with Hold & Spin, jackpots and progress meters included in the mobile version.
The KSA contacted parties involved in mobile game advertising after receiving reports of gambling adverts appearing in apps, and asked them to remove the adverts and prevent recurrence. The regulator said some companies had suspended advertising partners, added restrictions and strengthened checks; it did not identify the apps or advertising platforms involved.