GTA’s new casino causes controversy

There has recently been an ongoing debate surrounding the regulation of gambling within the video gaming world, with the UK’ gambling commission recently confirming that loot boxes are not yet classed as a form of gambling. 

The boxes, which offer undisclosed prizes for a sum of money, appear in several renowned games but are not legally classed as gambling but do raise concern, the commission stated,

However, Rockstar Games has now taken this one step further, having added a casino to its counsel game.

The Diamond Casino and Resort is set to be a popular addition to the game with a rooftop infinity pool, new missions and a virtual casino said to be part of the new complex.  

However, there is likely to be new concerns over the implications that this could have. It is suggested that you can now spend in-game chops on the casino’s slot machines, Roulette, Black Jack or Three Hand Poker games.

Through the GTA Online store, users are able to purchase the game’s in-game currency, using actual world money. This money is usually then spent on cosmetics, vehicles and so forth but will now be used to purchase chips for the casino addition. 

In this sense, it could be seen to be a real form of gambling, as real money is being wagered within the confines of the game. However, you are not yet able to cash out any money won and instead, this can be used for further gaming activity.

This will be a welcome consolation for money but is still likely to raise ethical questions and concerns amongst some members of the public.  

Game industry experts have widely welcomed the move but do criticise the developers for allowing real-time money to be used to purchase chips for the gambling aspects of the game. Many have sought to curb the damage this could have and are inviting Rockstar Games to rethink this crucial aspect. Some believe that it could prove to be damaging for those with potential gambling addictions.