Investigating mobile games' compliance with Australia's 2024 mandatory minimum age classifications scheme for gambling-like mechanics

Abstract

In September 2024, Australia introduced mandatory minimum age classifications for video games containing gambling-like mechanics, including loot boxes and simulated gambling. This study investigates compliance with the new scheme across the 100 top-grossing mobile games on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Our analysis reveals widespread noncompliance, with 20 games on the Apple App Store and 48 on the Google Play Store failing to meet classification requirements. These findings highlight critical shortcomings in enforcement, platform accountability, and regulatory clarity. We argue that the current classification framework is ill-suited to the realities of contemporary digital game distribution, and offer policy recommendations to strengthen consumer protection against gambling-like content in games.

Keywords: Loot boxes, Gacha, Video games law, Videogaming regulation