Draft of new EU law proposes sweeping restrictions on online games
The European Commission has released a draft of the EU KIDS Act, which proposes sweeping restrictions on online games available in EU territories. While the most controversial provisions—banning access for children under 13 and restricting access for those under 15—specifically target social networks and video-sharing platforms, the legislation also introduces significant rules for online games more broadly.
The proposed law would mandate age assurance tools for app stores and require age-rating of all games with published methodologies. App stores would be prohibited from allowing children to access or purchase age-inappropriate applications. The legislation also targets what the EU considers “addictive design features,” including login bonuses, push notifications, and streak mechanics commonly found in live-service games. Additionally, it calls for greater transparency regarding in-game currencies and user communications.
The broad definition of “online games” in the draft could encompass everything from standalone titles like Roblox to multiplayer modes on traditional disc-based games, potentially affecting the majority of gaming experiences available in the EU.
Trade body Video Games Europe has responded with mixed reactions, expressing both support for child protection measures and skepticism about the scope and practical implementation of the restrictions. Industry concerns appear centered on the sweeping nature of the regulations and their potential impact on game design and monetization across the sector.