Circumventing European laws: a new type of loot box in CS2
Valve has found a way to circumvent strict European laws prohibiting loot boxes. Counter-Strike 2 has recently received an update with a new collection of skins "Genesis" and a unique "Genesis Terminal" system, which is designed specifically for players from Belgium, the Netherlands and France.
How does it work? Every week, players get access to the terminal for free. When activated, it shows them a random set of skins with specific prices - from $0.30 to $1.6 thousand. It is impossible to abandon the current option and return to the previous one. You have 3 days to pay, after which the item disappears. Purchased skins can be sold on the marketplace in a week.
Valve released a new type of loot boxes in CS2 to bypass European bans
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On September 16, Valve released an update for Counter-Strike 2 with a new skin collection " Genesis" and a system called " Genesis Terminal" that lets them get around loot-box bans in Belgium, the Netherlands… pic.twitter.com/7o4T5IYDT2
Law vs. Psychology: Why Players Criticise the System
From a legal point of view, the new mechanics are not gambling. Unlike traditional loot boxes, where the player pays for a "pig in a poke", here he sees the product and its price before purchase. This allows Valve to formally avoid accusations of organising gambling.
However, despite the legality, the gaming community is already actively criticising Genesis Terminal. The main complaint is psychological pressure and the creation of the illusion of winning. Players feel that they have "fell" a rare skin, which they are then forced to buy in order not to "miss the chance".
Mark Patterson is the news writer at CasinosInCanada who covers the latest developments in the iGaming industry, including casino launches, regulations, and market updates.
It's just some kind of shame. Valve stooped to such schemes. They just want to rake in money, and don't care about the players.
No, no, no. This is not "just a store". This is a psychological trick. You are shown something cool, and you buy under pressure. That's not fair.
Well, what did you want? They need to somehow circumvent these laws. Otherwise, they will lose a huge market. From a business point of view, it is brilliant. From the player's point of view, well, so-so.
Yes, it's just stupid. First, you are allowed to "win" something, and then you are confronted with the fact that you have to pay. It would be better to return normal boxes and keys.
Just like in a casino: "Ah, you got a rare skin! Now buy it, or it will disappear." This is just a brazen manipulation. And they think it's not gambling?