Games with Microtransactions Banned for Teens? PEGI Announces Major Rule Changes
Hennadiy Chemеris
Starting June 2026, Europe’s video game ratings board PEGI will introduce new rules for evaluating games that feature microtransactions, loot boxes, and online functions. The changes are aimed at protecting children and teenagers from potentially addictive mechanics and unwanted online interactions.
New Categories and Age Restrictions
PEGI is adding four new criteria:
- In-app purchases — Limited paid systems like premium battle passes. Games featuring these mechanics will receive a minimum PEGI 12 rating if payments are enabled by default. If spending is disabled, the age rating can drop to PEGI 7;
- Paid random items — Cards, gacha mechanics, keys, and loot boxes. These will require a minimum PEGI 16 rating, and social casino games will be rated PEGI 18. PEGI is also considering lowering the rating to 12+ if access to paid loot boxes is disabled by default;
- Play by appointment — Games that encourage players to log in daily to maintain progress or complete quests. These will have a base rating of PEGI 7, but a special parental descriptor will warn about the need for regular play. If there are additional incentives for daily logins, the rating may be raised to PEGI 12;
- Online community — Games with open voice, text, or video chat will be rated PEGI 18. In some countries, including the UK, titles with completely unrestricted communication may be banned from sale altogether.
Possible Consequences:
- Loot boxes and gacha mechanics might disappear or be significantly reworked, as games featuring them will be restricted for kids and teens;
- Online games with open communication could face age verification requirements or communication restrictions, similar to systems in Roblox;
- Games with seasonal passes will be classified as 12+ and above to reflect their paid and incentivizing elements.
According to PEGI director Dirk Bosmans, this is the biggest update to the agency’s criteria in its history, and the first games rated under the new rules are expected to hit the market by gamescom 2026.
By the way, in February, New York authorities filed a lawsuit against Valve over loot boxes. The company has already issued an official statement and plans to contest the allegations.
Do you think PEGI’s stricter age ratings will force developers to change loot boxes and microtransactions in games, or is this just a formality?
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