EU consumer groups complain about 'manipulative' video game spending tactics

Video game companies including Epic Games, Electronic Arts and Roblox were hit with an EU consumer complaint on Thursday, accused of misleading gamers into spending money.

The complaint was filed as concerns grow over children becoming addicted to video games, with some parents claiming game developers are deliberately creating products to foster addiction.

The European Consumer Organisation (BEUC), alongside 22 member groups across Europe, including in France, Germany, Italy and Spain, lodged the complaint with the European Commission and the European Network of Consumer Authorities.

The groups accused the companies of using “manipulative spending tactics” involving in-game virtual currencies, which they said children are “even more vulnerable to.”

"BEUC's members have identified numerous cases where gamers are misled into spending money. Regulators must act, making it clear that even though the gaming world is virtual, it still needs to abide by real-world rules," said BEUC Director General Agustin Reyna.

The complaint targets Epic Games, Electronic Arts (EA.O), Roblox

The complaint targets some of the biggest names in gaming, including Epic Games, Electronic Arts, Roblox, Microsoft, Activision Blizzard, Mojang Studios, Supercell (majority-owned by China's Tencent) and French company Ubisoft.

These firms are behind popular titles such as Fortnite, EA Sports games, Minecraft, and Clash of Clans.

Vulnerable consumers

"Premium in-game currencies are purposefully tricking consumers, and this takes a big toll on children. Companies are well aware of children’s vulnerability and use tricks to lure younger consumers into spending more," Reyna said.

Read more on RFI English

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