The European Consumer Organization (BEUC) has filed a formal complaint with the EU against the actions of seven gaming companies: Activision Blizzard, Electronic Arts, Epic Games, Mojang Studios, Roblox Corporation, Supercell and Ubisoft.
Image Source: Epic Games
According to BEUC, the listed publishers and developers, who are responsible for such popular games as Fortnite, Minecraft, Roblox, EA Sports FC 24, Clash of Clans and more, violate EU consumer protection laws.
In particular, BEUC accuses the mentioned companies of confusing and misleading gamers (especially minors) in order to force them to spend real money in a video game.
In-game store in Assassin’s Creed Odyssey (image source: Ubisoft)
The listed companies indicate prices for in-game goods in virtual premium currency, and not in real currency, which, according to BEUC, pushes users to additional expenses.
Due to their limited financial literacy, BEUC considers children to be particularly vulnerable to such “manipulative tactics”, with young European gamers spending €39 on in-game purchases every month.
Manipulative tactics will not work! (image source: Morningstar on Steam)
BEUC CEO Agustín Reyna said the online world poses new challenges for regulators to protect consumer rights and should not become a place where companies break rules to maximize profits.
BEUC calls on authorities to ensure gaming companies provide a safe environment for consumers: “Regulators must make it clear that while the gaming world is virtual, it must be subject to the rules of the real world.”