Level-up loot remains
Blizzard Entertainment has announced that real-money loot boxes have been removed from the Belgian territories in both online shooterOverwatchand MOBAHeroes of the Storm,effective immediately.
The decision is made in compliance with theBelgian Gaming Commission’s April reportthat recognises paid loot boxes as a form of gambling. In a statement, Blizzard made clear that they do not agree with the ruling, but have removed the ability to pay for loot boxes in said games, in line with “their interpretation” of the law.
“In April 2018, the Belgian Gaming Commission published a report that was endorsed by the Belgian Ministry of Justice in which they concluded that paid loot boxes inOverwatchare considered gambling under local law”. said an company statement. “While we at Blizzard were surprised by this conclusion and do not share the same opinion, we have decided to comply with their interpretation of Belgian law. As a result, we have no choice but to implement measures that will preventOverwatchandHeroes of the Stormplayers located in Belgium from purchasing in-game loot boxes and loot chests with real money and gems.”
Players can still earn loot boxes through acts such as leveling up, or purchasing via in-game currency. This news obviously comeshot on the heels of the announcementby 2K Games that card packs will no longer be purchasable inNBA 2Ktitles in the same territory.
Overwatch and Heroes of the Storm remove paid loot in accordance with Belgian law[Official]
