Loot boxes in video games are being defended as “ethical” “surprises.” While the practice (which has players buy a randomized selection of virtual items without knowing what they are getting) is under fire in multiple countries, game makers are fighting to keep them.

Loot boxes in video games are being defended as “ethical” “surprises.” While the practice (which has players buy a randomized selection of virtual items without knowing what they are getting) is under fire in multiple countries, game makers are fighting to keep them. Testifying before UK’s Parliament, EA’s legal team compared loot boxes to toys like Kinder Eggs and LOL Surprise, and called them “quite fun.” Loot boxes have already been banned in Belgium, and critics worry they’re too close to gambling to be safe. (CNET)