Italy is investigating Activision Blizzard for making in-game purchases

Italy has launched two investigations into Microsoft subsidiary Activision Blizzard, alleging that the company engaged in “deceptive and aggressive” sales practices for popular smartphone games Diablo Immortal and Call of Duty Mobile.

The country’s competition regulator, Autorita Garante della Concorrenza E Del Mercato (AGCM), said investigations focus on the use of design elements to induce users, especially children, to play for long periods and make in-game purchases by urging them not to miss out on rewards.

“These practices, coupled with strategies that make it difficult for users to understand the true value of virtual currency used in the game and sell in-game currency in bundles, may affect players as consumers – including minors – leading them to spend large sums, sometimes beyond what is necessary to progress in the game and without being fully aware of the expenditure involved,” AGCM said. books In a statement.

The games are advertised as free-to-play but offer in-game purchases, AGCM said.

However, this isn’t particularly surprising, because unlike full-priced games, free-to-play games have long relied on loot boxes and in-game cosmetic sales for income. For example, Diablo Immortal offers in-game cosmetics, as well as currency that allows players to speed up their progress and obtain items for crafting, for up to $200.

Given the nature of the game, it is not unusual for many users to frequently spend on such items while playing.

Both Diablo Immortal and Call of Duty Mobile have player bases in the hundreds of thousands.

The authority is also looking into parental control features for games, as the default settings allow minors to make in-game purchases, play for long periods without restrictions, and allow them to chat with others within the game. The AGCM also highlighted privacy concerns, with games appearing to lead users to select all consent options when registering, and said it would look into the company’s consent process for the collection and use of personal data.

“In the Authority’s view, the company may be acting in breach of consumer protection rules and, in particular, the professional duty of care required in a sector that is particularly sensitive to the risks of addiction associated with gaming,” the regulator said.

Activision Blizzard did not immediately respond to a request for comment.