EU proposes KIDS Act to regulate online games and protect minors

The European Union is proposing the KIDS Act, a draft law aimed at regulating online games and other digital services to protect minors. Massively Overpowered first reported that the act seeks to implement stricter age verification, discourage excessive playtime through measures like limiting login bonuses, and enhance parental controls. It also aims to provide transparency regarding the real monetary value of in-game transactions and virtual currencies.

Games Industry further detailed that the proposed act introduces significant restrictions for online games sold in EU territories, particularly concerning minors under 18. Key provisions include prohibitions on features like login bonuses and penalties for not playing, restrictions on interactions between minors, and new regulations for AI companions. The act also touches upon virtual currency transparency and lootboxes, though their inclusion in the operative text for games is unclear. Game developers must assess how these regulations will impact core gameplay mechanics and design choices.