Remember when EA tried to call lootboxes surprise mechanics, and that they were fun and ethical like Kinder Eggs? Imagine the fun and surprise a man in the UK had when he found out his children cleaned out his bank account buying lootboxes for FIFA 19.
Thomas Carter’s four children spent almost GBP550 (~RM2841) in three weeks buying player packs for FIFA 19’s FIFA Ultimate Team mode. Carter decided to buy one pack for GBP8 (~RM41) for the children, who were playing on the family’s Nintendo Switch. Unfortunately for him, he did not realise that the children were paying attention to the process of buying the packs.
According to a BBC report, Carter only realised what happened when their debit card’s use was declined elsewhere. Further inspection revealed that the bank account tied to the card was already empty. Despite the amount spent, the children still didn’t get the card of their favourite player, who happens to be Lionel Messi.
The children, all aged below 10, are all remorseful, and did not understand what exactly they were doing. Carter has since confiscated the Switch, and Nintendo agreed to a full refund. He also admitted that he did not take full precautions to stop the children from making the purchases. On the other hand, he also said he felt the concept of lootboxes was unethical.
“You pay GBP40 for the game, which is a lot of money in itself, but then the only way to get a great team is essentially by gambling.”
That’s one parent who has gone on the record to disagree with EA, even if indirectly. It’s also important to note that FIFA 19 is rated to be suitable for everyone aged three and up.
(Source: BBC)
