The Netherlands have classified loot boxes as gambling, which is now showing its consequences. For example, in the MOBA DotA 2. There, players can preview the loot box before buying. But the system also has a major catch.
Contents of Dota 2 loot boxes are now known before purchase
Loot boxes must be viewable. Valve must adjust the mechanics of loot boxes in DotA 2. Therefore, players now know what they are actually buying.
Even before purchase, it is possible to take a look inside the boxes to see exactly what is inside.
Advantages and disadvantages. The new system brings not only advantages but also some limitations.
Advantages:
- You can now see what is in the loot boxes before buying them
- You should no longer spend too much money hoping to eventually get the item you want
- You won’t be frustrated when you receive items you can’t actually use
Disadvantages:
- It is no longer possible to buy multiple loot boxes at once
- The contents of the boxes are account-bound
- It is no longer possible to sell or trade the items
- Even with a “reset”, the contents of a loot box you’ve opened remain the same
- The chance of getting a rare item is still very low
You will be stuck with the box until you open it
The system could lead to disappointments. Even though you no longer buy a pig in a poke, the system is likely to lead to disappointments. There is already criticism of it.
Because when you open a box, you will see what is inside, but you will still essentially have to purchase it if you want to be offered a new one.
You still can’t avoid buying multiple loot boxes if you are looking for a specific item. Knowing that you have to buy a box that offers contents you don’t want is disappointing and frustrating.
Some players are also angry because Valve now exploits this kind of “loophole” to continue selling loot boxes that not everyone can use.
