2K Games alters NBA 2K MyTeam mode to comply with Belgian loot box laws
UPDATE: Publisher also removes premium currency card packs from Dutch version, "disagrees with this position" in both nations
UPDATE:Take-Two Interactive has also pulled the sale of card packs with premium currency for Dutch players of NBA 2K.
The decision follows the ruling of the Netherlands' gaming authority, the Kansspelautoriteit, that titles with loot box mechanics violate the country's gambling laws if the in-game items they contain are transferable. As with the Belgian ruling, 2K has said it "disagrees with this position" but will ensure the game is compliant with these laws.
"MyTeam packs can still be purchased in the normal manner," the publisher stated. "We will be continuing conversations with the Kansspelautoriteit in order to explain our view of how NBA 2K and the Auction House will comply with local laws. If you agree, we recommend that you contact your local government representative to communicate your opinion. We will keep the community posted on any developments. We apologize for any inconvenience."
ORIGINAL STORY (22/08/2018): Take-Two Interactive has disabled the purchasing of card packs with premium currency in NBA 2K for its customers in Belgium.
The changes to the game's MyTeam mode will bring the game into compliance with Belgian gambling laws. The NBA 2K mode is similar to FIFA's Ultimate Team, and allows users to build a squad of players through buying randomised card packs.
"Specifically, we will be turning off the ability to purchase packs with premium (non-earned) currency," 2K Games said in a statement. "Gamers are still able to acquire packs with MyTeam points."
This is another example of a game falling foul of the Belgium Gaming Commission, which decided that loot box mechanics violate gambling laws earlier this year.
"While we disagree with this position, we are working to comply with the BGC's current interpretation of these laws," 2K said. "We will be continuing conversations with the BGC in order to explain our view on how NBA 2K and MyTeam pack purchases already comply with local laws.
"If you agree, we recommend that you contact your local government representative to communicate your opinion. We will keep the community posted on any developments. We apologize for any inconvenience."
You can read more about the Belgium Gaming Commission's decision in this article. Valve has also started altering its games to comply with regional laws.