The European Commission and the Consumer Protection Cooperation Network have launched coordinated actions against ten gaming companies. The investigation targets 11 titles, including Minecraft, Candy Crush Saga, Diablo Immortal, Call of Duty Mobile, and Valorant. Regulators selected these games due to their widespread availability and diverse age ratings.
Authorities are scrutinizing how these companies sell and price in-game virtual currencies. The investigation follows principles published in March 2025, which require clear display of real-world prices and prohibit practices that obscure costs. Companies must avoid bundling that leaves players with stranded balances or forces them to buy excess currency.
The regulatory framework mandates a 14-day withdrawal right for purchased but unspent virtual currency. It also flags as unfair any contract terms allowing companies to unilaterally change currency values or close accounts without contest. The rules specifically target currencies bought with real money, excluding cryptocurrencies and assets earned solely through gameplay.
The network is also examining loot boxes, dark patterns, and aggressive marketing directed at children. For Activision Blizzard, the probe extends to data collection, addictive design, and parental controls. Despite workshops held in 2025, regulators found that many companies failed to implement substantive changes, leading to these enforcement actions.
