Are loot boxes in online games regulated in Singapore?

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Remote games of chance with chance-based elements where players can win prizes that are money, money equivalent and/or any item of value are subject to regulations under the Gambling Control Act 2022. An example of a chance-based element is loot boxes in an online game.

Under the Gambling Control (Remote Games of Chance – Class Licence) Order 2022, operators are permitted to offer loot boxes in online games if they implement safeguards to mitigate gambling inducement risks. The conditions differ depending on whether the game is free or requires payment.

For games where players pay for a chance to play, prizes from loot boxes must be designed for use within the game, and operators are prohibited from offering money as prizes or redeeming prizes in exchange for money.

For free-to-play games, less stringent requirements apply as they pose lower gambling inducement risks. The game must not involve any prohibited game such as mahjong or poker, or display any article associated with prohibited games.

Are loot boxes in online games regulated in Singapore?

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