EU Authorities Target 10 Game Companies Over In-Game Currency
European consumer protection authorities announced coordinated action against 10 game companies, including Activision Blizzard and Ubisoft, over in-game currency practices.
European consumer protection authorities have announced coordinated actions against 10 video game companies, according to GameSpot. The Italian Competition Authority is leading the enforcement effort, with the European Commission coordinating.
The targeted companies include Activision Blizzard and Ubisoft. The actions focus on practices that obscure real-world spending, particularly premium in-game currencies sold in set quantities that make it difficult for players to track actual costs.
Insufficient parental control mechanisms were also cited as an area of concern by the authorities.
Separately, starting October 14, Fortnite players can purchase the exact amount of V-Bucks they need. The change will also roll out to Rocket League and Fall Guys, though not on PlayStation.
Background
Several years ago, the Federal Trade Commission began an investigation into "roach motel" subscriptions in live-service games, which required a single click to sign up for season passes or recurring subscriptions but made cancellation difficult. Sony has claimed it does not mislead customers into purchasing digital licenses instead of actual ownership, and it is set to pay out nearly $8 million to PlayStation customers as part of a settlement regarding digital game prices.
Quick answers
Which companies are being targeted by European authorities?
The 10 targeted companies include Activision Blizzard and Ubisoft. The Italian Competition Authority is leading the actions, with the European Commission coordinating.
What practices are under scrutiny?
The focus is on practices that obscure real-world spending, such as premium in-game currencies sold in set quantities, as well as insufficient parental control mechanisms.
When does Fortnite's exact V-Bucks purchase option start?
Starting October 14, Fortnite players can buy the exact amount of V-Bucks they need. This will also roll out to Rocket League and Fall Guys, but not on PlayStation.