Brazil’s President Enacts Law Banning Loot Boxes for Under-18s, Effective March 2026

Brazil’s New Legislation Bans Loot Boxes for Minors

In a significant move to safeguard younger gamers, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has signed a law prohibiting loot boxes in video games for individuals under the age of 18. This measure, reported by Eurogamer, is set to take effect in March 2026.

Key Provisions of the Law

With the implementation of this legislation, any game featuring loot boxes must receive an 18+ rating. Consequently, games rated lower than this threshold will not be allowed to include such features, marking a significant shift in how in-game purchases are regulated for younger audiences.

Global Context of Loot Box Regulation

This new law in Brazil aligns with a growing global scrutiny of loot boxes in gaming. Recent developments include a motion from the Dutch government in 2023 aimed at outright banning loot boxes and Belgium’s preceding ban established in 2018, which led to the cessation of FIFA points sales within that region. Such actions highlight an increasing awareness of the potential risks associated with these in-game mechanics.

The Legal and Ethical Debate

The recent shift in regulations prompted various lawsuits against gaming companies, questioning whether loot boxes should be classified as gambling. Despite some legal verdicts siding with the notion that loot boxes do not fall under gambling definitions, the topic remains a contentious issue within the gaming community, particularly as the live service model continues to dominate the market.

Potential Industry Reactions and Implications

As the March 2026 deadline approaches, the effectiveness of Brazil’s enforcement of this new law will be closely monitored. It is anticipated that gaming companies might lobby for alterations to the legislation, concerned about potential disparities—such as games being rated as 18+ in Brazil while remaining accessible to younger audiences in other regions.

If successful, Brazil’s regulation could pave the way for further legislative actions in other countries, potentially transforming one of the video game industry’s most debated elements in the process.

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