Risk Factors Associated with Gambling on Loot Boxes

Loot boxes (LBs) are virtual objects that players open without knowing the value of the item they will obtain. Because of their features, studies have explored their association with gambling, finding commonalities. However, risk factors have been overlooked. This study examined risk factors associated with gambling as applied to LBs (gambling in the past year, having family/friends who use LBs/gamble, trait impulsivity, and sensation-seeking).

253 participants (82.2% men) with a mean age of 28 years ( SD = 12.11)—in three groups: gamblers ( n = 89), LB purchasers ( n = 63), and free-LB openers ( n = 101)—completed a self-report.

Having family/friends who used LBs was related to increased engagement in opening LBs at no cost. However, having gambled in the past year or having family/friends who used LBs or who gambled was not associated with increased purchasing. Gamblers, LB purchasers, and LB openers scored equally highly on impulsivity and sensation-seeking. Because some gamblers used LBs, and LB purchasers also opened free-LBs, further analyses were performed to control for the effects of overlapping groups. Loot boxers had higher scores in sensation-seeking than gamblers.

The results can contribute to the development of prevention and intervention strategies for LB users.