The phenomenon of micro-transactions in video games is at the center of attention of the regulator of online games in France. After a year in 2017 when the phenomenon has grown, the ARJEL has decided to make a point on the famous Loot Boxes and overall on the principle of free games with pay options. Loot Boxes in a game = gambling? ARJEL is the gendarme of online games and its mission is to regulate the activities of sports betting, horse betting and online poker.

The organization admits that the subject of Loot Boxes needs to be dug. Technically, paying for improvement in a game (which is basically free) could categorize the game as "gambling". In reality, the presence of these paid options in many games are not new. It's been years that mobile games are subject to this type of operation. The application is free for those who download it but the player can decide at any time to buy features, options to improve his account, Sports Betting his progress in the game.