Epic Games has denied that gambling mechanics are being added to Fortnite in user-created experiences, despite their own explanation confirming their addition.
Leaks first emerged to state that “gambling” was coming to UEFN, which was confirmed in the latest patch notes, but there appears to be some confusion about the clarification of “gambling” in the game.
Epic Games Denies ‘Gambling’ Added to Fortnite
Epic Games approached Insider Gaming to request a correction to our article about the addition of “gambling” in Fortnite, stating that gambling is against the Fortnite Developer Rules.
Section 1.11 of the Developer Rules states that developers cannot “implement gambling content, raffles, or casino-style games,” which are “prohibited whether or not they involve real money or virtual currency.”
Additionally, section 1.15.5 states that “teach or prominently feature images or activities that are typically associated with real-world gambling, casino-style games, or games of chance that offer a prize, even if they are not directly simulating a gambling experience, are not permitted in any form.”
Epic Games explained that, instead, the addition is for “paid random items” and that developers must “disclose the actual numerical odds of what the player may receive before the player makes a purchase.” However, Epic Games denies that gambling and paid random items are the same.
Despite Epic Games’ arguments, the above still constitutes gambling. Any paid-for item with a chance of a specific reward is still gambling, just as loot boxes in other titles qualify as gambling.
This is confirmed by legal action in countries like Belgium, where the Belgium Gaming Commission banned loot boxes in 2018 and declared the content to be “in violation of gambling legislation.”
This article will be updated if Epic Games provides any further details on the addition.
For more Fortnite, find out where to find bosses in The Simpsons mini-season, and learn how to get your Sidekick to emote in the game.
