The European Consumer Protection Cooperation (CPC) network has initiated investigations into nine gaming companies regarding their in-game currency sales practices. The list of companies under review includes Crytek, InnoGames, King.com, Mojang, Plarium Europe, PLR Worldwide Sales Limited, Riot Games Limited, Supercell Oy, and Ubisoft.
Regulators are examining titles such as Minecraft, Clash of Clans, Candy Crush Saga, Hunt: Showdown 1896, Forge of Empires, Mech Arena, Gardenscapes, Valorant, and For Honor. The authorities are assessing price transparency, hidden costs, purchase pressure, and the enforcement of consumer refund rights.
The investigation focuses on compliance with EU principles for in-game currencies published in March 2025. These rules mandate that players must be informed of the real-world cost of digital items and currencies before purchase, and prohibit deceptive mechanics that force additional spending.
Additionally, the CPC is conducting a separate review of Activision Blizzard concerning Diablo Immortal and Call of Duty Mobile. This inquiry covers data collection, addictive mechanics, parental controls, and marketing practices targeting children. Notably, GameFi projects like The Sandbox and Axie Infinity are not included in these checks.
