What should I do if my child wants to spend money in-game?

In-game spending is a feature in some video games. It offers players the chance to buy items to, for example, enhance gameplay, unlock exclusive content, or improve player appearance. 

Research by Video Games Europe found that annually, only 21% of video games rated by PEGI contain in-game purchases, and only 3% of games contain loot boxes. Furthermore, our research shows that 31% of parents said their children or themselves have never bought or opened any kind of loot box, with the majority (38%) saying their children have never bought a loot box, instead having only opened those they earned through gameplay. 

Despite this, it’s crucial for parents to understand these purchases and set limits ensuring young players make mindful spending decisions. 

How to spot if a game has in-game purchases

Alongside age ratings for video games, PEGI also provides content descriptors. If a game has in-game purchases, the following PEGI icon will be shown. If the game has a physical box, the logo is shown on the back of the box. If it is a digital purchase it is shown on most digital storefronts (Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo and Android).

What Are Loot Boxes?

A loot box is a video game mechanic that provides random in-game virtual items to players. A ‘paid’ loot box means a loot box that is either purchased using real-world money or acquired using virtual currency that itself has been purchased. 

While they can add excitement, loot boxes function like opening a packet of football stickers, with players spending money without knowing exactly what they’ll get. Ukie, alongside the video games industry, has introduced 11 principles which recommend that the games industry acts to restrict loot box purchases by under-18s without parental consent. 

Given these are not prescriptive principles, it’s a good idea to talk with your child about the nature of loot boxes, helping them recognise the risks and setting clear limits on spending. This is a good opportunity to introduce concepts like ‘wants and needs and priorities’, as suggested on Radio 4 MoneyBox.

Tips to Help Manage In-Game Spending

• Set Up Parental Controls: Many consoles and devices offer settings to limit or prevent purchases. Take the time to set these up before handing over the console. 
• Use A Child Account: Create a child account via the family account settings to limit the features and functions of your child’s account. 
• Agree Limits: Use the Power Up Pact to help children understand the real-world value of in-game purchases, encouraging them to think critically about spending.

By staying informed and involved, parents can help their children enjoy games while managing spending wisely. 

Other Useful Resources: 

• Internet Matters
• Safer Internet
• Ukie’s 11 Industry Principles
• Wants, needs and priorities on BBC Radio 4 MoneyBox