Australia introduces new video game classification guidelines for gambling-like content
Starting from 22 September 2024, the Australian Government will implement new video game classification rules aimed at addressing growing concerns about the impact of gambling-like content in video games. These changes come as more research links gambling mechanics in games to problem gambling, especially among children and young adults.
Under the new guidelines, video games that feature paid loot boxes or other chance-based in-game purchases will receive a minimum rating of M (Mature). This means such games are not recommended for players under 15, although there will be no legal restrictions on their sale.
For video games that simulate gambling, like casino or slot machine games, an R 18+ classification will be enforced. This aligns these titles with Australian gambling laws, meaning they will only be accessible to adults aged 18 or over.
These new classification rules will apply to video games across all platforms, including computers, gaming consoles, phones, and tablets. The types of games most affected include those offering purchasable loot boxes or randomised rewards that use real or in-game currency. Additionally, social casino games and titles featuring interactive gambling activities will be subject to these restrictions.
However, games that feature chance-based mechanics but do not involve real-money purchases, or those set in casino environments without interactive gambling elements, are unlikely to be impacted by these changes.
Games classified before the new guidelines come into effect will not be automatically reclassified. However, if a game is updated or modified, it may be reviewed under the new rules.
Earlier, the Australian government officially banned the use of credit cards for any form of online gambling.
Evolution has obtained Isle of Man licence
Evolution has successfully secured a Software Supplier Licence from the Isle of Man, enabling the company to provide its services to operators licensed within the jurisdiction. This development comes as the Isle of Man gains increasing attention from gaming companies due to its rational regulatory framework.
The licence was obtained with the assistance of eGaming consultancy firm SolutionsHub, which guided Evolution through the application process. James O’Kelly, Head of Operations at SolutionsHub, highlighted the growing number of software providers choosing the Isle of Man. He said: “We’ve seen a sharp rise in companies recognising the value of being licensed here, proving they are reliable partners for gaming operators.”
The Isle of Man has become a major hub for online gaming, attracting numerous software providers. The licensing process saw Evolution collaborate with Digital Isle of Man and the Isle of Man Gambling Supervision Commission. Tara Leneghan, Strategic Partnership Manager at Digital Isle of Man, expressed her support for Evolution’s successful licensing. She noted: “We are delighted to have helped Evolution navigate the Isle of Man’s eGaming environment, alongside SolutionsHub. Attracting a company of this calibre is a true testament to the advantages of licensing here.”
In addition to its Isle of Man, Evolution has also expanded its US operations. In 2024, the company launched live casino games in Delaware through a partnership with BetRivers. These recent developments highlight Evolution’s ongoing efforts to broaden its market reach while adhering to regulatory standards across different jurisdictions.
New Jersey’s gaming revenue surged to $555.1 million in August 2024
The New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement has released the gaming revenue figures for August 2024, highlighting mixed performance across the state’s gambling sectors.
Atlantic City’s nine casino hotels posted a total casino win of $294 million for August, a 4.9% rise compared to the $280.3 million reported in August 2023. However, year-to-date figures remained unchanged at $1.92 billion, matching the numbers from the same period last year.
Online gaming continued its strong growth, with internet gaming win hitting $198.4 million in August 2024. This represents a significant 27.8% jump from the $155.3 million recorded in August 2023. Year-to-date, online gaming reached $1.52 billion, marking a 22.7% increase compared to 2023.
Sports betting revenue, on the other hand, saw a sharp decline. Casinos, racetracks, and their partners reported $62.7 million for August 2024, down 34.7% from the previous year. Despite the monthly dip, year-to-date sports wagering revenue showed a 19.7% increase, totalling $715.8 million compared to $597.9 million in 2023.
Overall, the total gaming revenue for casinos, racetracks, and their partners reached $555.1 million in August 2024, reflecting a 4.4% year-on-year increase. Year-to-date total revenue stood at $4.16 billion, up by 10.5% from the same period in 2023.
