The gamblification of digital leisure: analysis of the monetisation mechanisms of the most popular mobile games in Spain.

• In Event: Victimization and Support: Diverse Perspectives and Interventions

Abstract

The introduction of gambling dynamics in new areas such as video games (gamblification) has been a cause for alarm because it can expose individuals to a wide range of harms resulting from this activity. The design of video games is therefore increasingly questioned by public opinion on the basis of certain commercial practices, such as micropayments or loot boxes.
Given the impact of these techniques, especially on vulnerable groups such as minors, this research has been carried out by reviewing the regulatory framework of loot boxes, as well as a study of the 50 most downloaded mobile games in the PlayStore in Spain, with the aim of observing their forms of monetisation, identifying their prevalence and form of implementation. This made it possible, based on the study of current legislation, to propose specific measures for the prevention of cyber victimisation in this environment.

Authors

• Elena Beatriz Fernández-Castejón, CRÍMINA Center, University Miguel Hernández of Elche

• Jesús Aguerri, CRÍMINA Center, University Miguel Hernández of Elche

• Sara Sampayo Sande, Universidad Miguel Hernández de Elche