Pokemon Go’s “Sponsored Gifts” try to reform the system

Imagine having the chance of acquiring unique new looks, more powerful weapons or rare characters in your favorite game… The thought of opening loot boxes on adventures within a special world gives butterflies to many gaming enthusiasts, but holds more dangers than you probably know of.

If you are unfamiliar with the expression, loot boxes are like treasure chests inside games, their contents will either add to your collective, take you a step further in a game or make some challenges easier by providing you with new tools. However cool that might sound, there are 2 tricks to them: you have to pay for them, most commonly with real money, and you never know what you get, as the prizes are completely random.

Research has proven that purchasing these items highly relates to gambling. The whole process looks suspiciously similar, and players tend to experience the same emotions: excitement, irritability and helplessness, all this with total lack of control. As the studies are relatively new (the first ones being published in 2018), these correlations were mostly measured on adults, still, the youth is not excluded from the affected. A 2020 paper suggests that school and online bullying also contributed to a higher number of acquisitions in circles of 8-11 graders. Altogether, concerns arose if loot boxes should even be included in games at all.

As a reaction to the above, many countries banned the additions entirely, while requesting developers and producers to exclude them from the updates. A few games obeyed the pressure, or introduced modifications like Pokemon Go with Sponsored Gifts. They appear randomly in the form of hot air balloons, taking after the Team Rocket balloons that suggest special missions with the villainous operation. This function advertises other businesses directly within the game, and players can earn the prizes by tapping the ads. Even though this seems like a minor switch, it actually made the concept a whole lot safer for all age groups. Instead of asking for currency, it now requests players their time, evading the possibility of financial harm. Still, the gambling effect is present, even so that by encouraging people to remain in the game for a longer period of time, it binds lengthier hours of gameplay to possibly valuable items. On the other hand, sponsored gifts will not be shown on children’s accounts, and folks can opt out of the program at any time.

Sponsored gifts are not the only loot box-like feature in the free-to-play app. Eggs have long been available for all players, and received many accusations based on similarities to gambling. Eggs can be hatched within the game, resulting in a new pokemon. The time of the process varies, but players had to wait for the end of it to see what creature they got. The trick is that 6-12 kilometers of walking was required to be eligible for infrequent (shiny) species, though nothing was guaranteed. However, eggs offer no meaningful advantages to the players, they are only “cool to have”. They also require no form of payment, however, if one wishes to hold more at a time, purchases can (and according to tendency will) be made. Aside from the seemingly shady system, admittedly they motivate players to walk longer distances before they are able to get their hands on more precious objects. A new version is also being tested, that shows the type of pokemon for players before they complete the distance for them. Exercising being a healthy hobby, the practice may even be considered beneficial to some.

Everyone can make the decision for themselves if they consider loot boxes okay or not. However, we advise you to act quickly if you find yourself noticing signs of addiction, may it be in-app purchases or free versions of gambe items.

Here are 5 ways you can get back to normal:

1. Recognize the toxicity

Any addictive behavior can have a harmful effect on your overall mental and physical health. Analyze your tendencies and try to see your actions as they are.

2. Keep track of your spendings

In case you overspent in a game, but don’t consider yourself addicted, try to keep count of the amount you have for this purpose. This will help you not to cross the line again.

3. Cut off your financial sources

If you feel like the urge to purchase items in a game is irresistible, try disconnecting your bank account from your profile. The hassle of providing the details again might keep you from future endeavors.

4. Look for a new hobby

If you notice feeling trapped, try something new. Maybe some fresh air or volunteering in a dog shelter will help you see your priorities straight, and you’ll be able to spend some time away from the game.

5. Seek support

May your state be crucial, don’t be afraid to seek professional help. There are countless experts (even online) who will be able to help you fight your addiction and figure out a way to get it into a more healthy state.

Do you think loop boxes should be banned? Can you think of some ways they could be more user-friendly? We are eager to hear your thoughts on the topic!

We wish everyone happy and healthy gaming!