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Nearly half of gamers call for restrictions on Microtransactions

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  • 33% of gamers purchased a microtransaction (MTX) or loot box at least once a week, with 25-34 year olds most likely to purchase (45%) 
  • Xbox users are slightly more likely to make in-game purchases than PlayStation owners 
  • Call of Duty was labelled the worst offender for MTX by almost a third (29%) of gamers
 
Almost half (49%) of gaming fans agree that an 18+ age limit should be set for pay-to-access content, according to new research.

The survey, commissioned by gaming publisher, WePC, reveals how gamers are feeling since the pandemic and follows the recent investigation on loot boxes in Belgium, as more European authorities consider banning them altogether.

Microtransactions and gambling 

Over a third (33%) of UK gamers purchase a microtransaction or loot box at least once a week, with nearly 1 in 10 (8%) spending over £100 on each purchase occasion. Younger gamers aged 16-24 admitted to spending £17 above the national average of £36. Nearly two-thirds (60%) of this age group also claimed their gaming expenditure in general has seen an increase during the pandemic.

Although a large majority of respondents (69%) agreed that loot boxes promote gambling to younger gamers, only 19% called for them to be banned altogether. Users felt that along with the age limit, a cap on the amount that could be spent (43%) and restrictions on the impact paid content has on core gameplay (26%) would be more effective. Call of Duty was ranked the nation’s least favourite microtransaction offender (29%), followed by FIFA (28%) and Candy Crush (26%)

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But some gamers claim it depends on the game in question.

“In COD, your MTX are based around gun skins and animations, so it doesn’t directly affect your abilities to play,” says Leeds-based gamer, Josh Allen.

“FIFA, on the other hand, makes multiplayer experiences so much worse. You can play against someone who has paid to have a better team, which makes them impossible to beat, even if they’re less skilled at the game. That’s why I’ve given up playing FIFA altogether. COD, on the other hand, you can pay for aesthetic but winning is still based on skill.”

Leeds was revealed to be the capital city of microtransactions too (42%), followed closely by Brighton (41%) and London (39%).

Plymouth’s gaming community were the least likely to make in-game purchases (21%), along with Glasgow (23%) and Southampton (24%).

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Post-pandemic gaming  

Whilst restrictions may have started easing in the UK, reduction in social interaction has had both a financial and emotional impact on gamers.

Nearly half (47%) have admitted their gaming expenditure has increased during the pandemic, with the majority of money going to new video games (38%), online subscriptions (19%) and gaming equipment (19%).

Around 1 in 5 Xbox, Mobile, Nintendo and PC gamers say they spend most of their gaming expenditure on microtransactions.

However, it was Nintendo users that spent the most on loot boxes compared to any other console, with an average of £56 spent per purchase. PC gamers followed closely behind, spending an average of £51 per MTX.

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Sophie, an avid Animal Crossing fan and regular Nintendo gamer, has doubled her gaming expenditure since restrictions first came into place last year.

“I’m playing more games so making my way through my library quicker. I’m also buying games so that I can play online with friends and fill in that social gap.”

Will Blears, Marketing Director at WePC said:

 “As gamers ourselves, we understand that gaming is skill-based experience and it’s clear from the research that gamers are currently forced to buy into MTX and loot boxes to gain advantages within that experience.” 

“The European laws coming into place highlight the concern that is clear, from our survey data, is echoed around the gaming community. Loot boxes could definitely be a gateway into the darker side of gambling and creators need to factor in safety to make sure gaming continues to be enjoyable for all.” 

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HIPTHER Confirms Exciting Networking Venues and Stage Themes for MARE BALTICUM Gaming & TECH Summit 2025

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HIPTHER is thrilled to announce the official networking and social venues for the 2025 edition of the MARE BALTICUM Gaming & TECH Summit, taking place on 27–28 May in Vilnius, Lithuania. With three nights of curated gatherings designed to foster connection and celebration, the summit experience is as much about meaningful encounters as it is about cutting-edge insights.

This year’s networking activities will offer attendees a perfect balance of professional engagement and relaxed atmosphere – true to HIPTHER’s signature style of blending business with warmth and hospitality.

Day 0 – 26 May: The Welcome Meet

The networking begins on the evening before the official conference, as attendees gather for a warm and informal kick-off at Piano Man Bar, a cozy local favorite in the heart of Vilnius. From 18:00 to 22:00, guests will be welcomed into a laid-back atmosphere that sets the tone for the days ahead – whether reconnecting with familiar faces or raising a glass with new ones. The Welcome Meet is all about starting the summit in a relaxed style that fosters connection: with stories, laughter, and the kind of conversations that only happen when the pressure’s off.

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Day 1 – 27 May: Evening Social Gathering & BSG Awards Ceremony

On the first official conference evening, the networking continues with a celebratory gathering at Jazz Cellar 11, one of Vilnius’ most atmospheric live music venues. Kicking off at 19:45 and continuing late into the night, the event will feature the 2025 BSG Awards Ceremony, honoring excellence across the Baltic and Scandinavian gaming sectors. With HIPTHER’s well-known sense of timing, the ceremony will be brief and to the point, allowing more time for informal exchanges, smooth jazz, and a relaxed yet elegant ambiance perfect for deepening connections.

Day 2 – 28 May: Closing Party

The final evening of the summit concludes in style with the Closing Party at Invino Vilnius, a refined wine bar located in the historic center of the city. Join us for an unforgettable evening, where wine flows, conversations spark, and the energy carries on into the night. Enjoy carefully selected wines, refreshing drinks, and delicious snacks in one of Vilnius’ coziest and most atmospheric venues. Beginning at 19:30, this farewell gathering will be the ideal evening to wrap up the MARE BALTICUM experience, reflect on new insights, and say “until next time” in true HIPTHER fashion.

Gaming & TECH Insights: A Dual-Stage Theme Built for Depth & Discovery

In addition to the social calendar, HIPTHER is proud to present the two official conference stages that will host both the insightful industry panels and the highly anticipated HIPTHER Academy Workshops:

Compliance & Operations LabSponsored by Pace App
Designed for regulatory minds and operational leaders, this stage will spotlight the frameworks shaping fintech, gaming, and compliance today.

TechXperience StageSponsored by NuxGame
A future-forward space dedicated to innovation and tech-fueled discussions across AI, Blockchain, Fintech, virtual reality, and beyond.

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Together, the stages will welcome thought leaders and industry pioneers for meaningful discussions across verticals including iGaming, eSports, Fintech, Blockchain, AI, and more –  while also hosting hands-on workshops from the HIPTHER Academy.

Hands-On Learning with HIPTHER Academy Workshops

Complementing the summit’s dual-stage agenda, the HIPTHER Academy Workshops will empower professionals with actionable tools and strategic insight across critical areas of gaming, tech, and law. Topics include:

  • RegTech in Action: A deep dive into AML and compliance-ready frameworks for fintechs, led by ReguLearn Founder Viktorija Poluektova.
  • Creative Rights, Real Risks: A legal and strategic guide to sponsorships, IP, and branding in gaming and entertainment, delivered by Andrius Gabnys and Jovita Morta Gabne of GABNÉ.GABNYS.
  • Crypto Custody Under MiCA: A practical exploration of crypto regulation, transparency, and consumer protection under MiCA, with Anna Agu of Lex Law Office OU.
  • Neuroshift: A neuroscience-powered workshop on rewiring performance and leadership mindset, facilitated by Maria Loumpourdi of Made From Within.

HIPTHER’s Co-Founder, Zoltan Tuendik, stated about this year’s Social Agenda and Conference Stages “MARE BALTICUM Gaming & TECH Summit has always been more than just another industry conference. It’s a community-powered experience where people connect, collaborate, and challenge ideas in an environment that feels both professional and personal. With this year’s mix of vibrant networking venues and the dual-stage format designed to fuel serious insight and discovery, we are doubling down on what makes this summit special. We look forward to welcoming everyone to Vilnius for what promises to be our most engaging edition yet.

The MARE BALTICUM Gaming & TECH Summit 2025 promises a high-impact mix of strategic content and social experiences, creating the ideal setting for learning, inspiration, and building real industry relationships.

For more information and to view the full agenda, visit:
👉 hipther.com/events/vilnius

The post HIPTHER Confirms Exciting Networking Venues and Stage Themes for MARE BALTICUM Gaming & TECH Summit 2025 appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

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Howzat! SPRIBE names Yuzvendra Chahal as Aviator brand ambassador

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Indian cricket hero becomes latest athlete to promote the world’s leading crash game to his fans

SPRIBE, the developer behind the world’s number one crash game, Aviator, has added Indian cricket legend, Yuzvendra Chahal, to its team of superstar sports ambassadors.

Yuzvendra is a prominent Indian cricketer, renowned for his tactical leg-spin bowling and unrivalled consistency in limited-overs formats.

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As one of India’s leading wicket-takers in T20 Internationals, he has played a crucial role in many memorable victories for the national team.

He also plays in the Indian Premier League, representing the Punjab Kings and has earned a reputation for his sharp mind and game-changing spells.

Yuzvendra is just as popular off the field, where he is known for his engaging personality and strong digital presence, making him a big hit with younger audiences.

As an Aviator brand ambassador, Yuzvendra will take part in a series of high-profile campaigns that will drive awareness of the game among his fanbase and the wider cricket audience in India.

He joins other Aviator brand ambassadors such as fellow cricketer Suresh Raina, as well as UFC legends like Tom Aspinall, Alex Pereira, Johnny Walker, Merab Dvalishvili and Jully Poca.

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Aviator is the original crash game with more than 50 million active players a month.

David Natroshvili, Founder and CEO of SPRIBE, said: “Yuzvendra is one of the most explosive and popular cricketers in India, which makes him the perfect fit for Aviator – a game that puts players on the edge of their seat from the first game round to the last.

“Aviator is the original crash game and today is played by more than 50 million people across the world who love the high reward gameplay it provides – something that Yuzvendra knows all about.

“With Yuzvendra as an Aviator brand ambassador, we can make more players across India aware of the game and the excitement and big win potential it provides.”

Yuzvendra Chahal, Indian cricketer and Aviator ambassador, added: “Becoming an Aviator ambassador is a true honour and I’m really looking forward to working on some great campaigns to promote the game to my fans in India and beyond.

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“Aviator is thrilling and exciting, a little bit like taking to the cricket field and I can’t wait for my fans to strap in, blast off and potentially win big.”

The post Howzat! SPRIBE names Yuzvendra Chahal as Aviator brand ambassador appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

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Spinmatic goes live with Betsson in Greece

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Spinmatic, B2B provider of premium casino games, and Betsson, a giant behind one of the world’s largest betting and online casino platforms, have partnered to bring some of the industry’s most exciting titles to Greece.

Following recent launches with leading operators in the region, Spinmatic continues its upward trajectory, delivering a portfolio that’s not only tuned to local markets but also stands out globally for its quality and creativity.

This exciting new deal builds on a long-standing partnership between Spinmatic’s sister company, GoldenRace, and Betsson – who have been enjoying the most realistic Virtual Sports and solutions on the market.

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Anastasios Apostolou, Gaming Manager Greece at Betsson, proudly shared “We’re pleased to launch Spinmatic’s portfolio for our players in Greece. This addition enhances our offering with a selection of visually appealing and entertaining titles. At Betsson, we’re committed to continually broadening our content library to suit a wide range of player preferences, and Spinmatic’s games are a welcome addition to our diverse line-up.”

From fast-paced Crash games like Meteoroid Deluxe to the adventure-packed Ed Jones and the Book of Seth, Betsson players now have access to some of Spinmatic’s flagship titles. Whether they’re Jackpot chasers, retro lovers or high-speed thrill seekers, there’s a Spinmatic game ready to hit the mark.

“We are proud to see our games live with Betsson, a brand known for its high standards and player loyalty,” said Norbert Mathies, Managing Director at Spinmatic. “This partnership confirms that Spinmatic’s commitment to quality and innovation is exactly what leading operators are looking for.”

Greece’s regulated igaming market continues to offer exciting opportunities for forward-thinking brands. With major partnerships already live and more launches ahead, Spinmatic is demonstrating it’s ready to push even further.

The post Spinmatic goes live with Betsson in Greece appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

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