New York authorities sue Valve over loot box system in popular games
New York state officials have filed a lawsuit against Valve regarding the loot box mechanics in the games Counter-Strike 2, Dota 2, and Team Fortress 2, accusing the company of illegally promoting gambling. This case is significant as it may impact the economic model of these games and regulations around gambling targeting minors.
According to the prosecutors, Valve built a multibillion-dollar economy by selling keys and enabling the resale of skins, which do not affect gameplay but hold real monetary value and can be traded on third-party platforms. Authorities emphasize that this system fosters addictive behavior among teenagers. If the court supports the suit, it could fundamentally reshape the in-game economy.
New York officials demand that Valve ceases promoting loot boxes and cases, pays substantial fines for violating state laws, and returns all unlawfully obtained revenues, setting a major precedent for the video game industry.
