EA has refused to remove loot boxes from Belgian verisons of FIFA 18 and FIFA 19, sparking a criminal investigation against the publisher by the Brussels public prosecutor’s office.
The news comes by way of (a translated version of) MetroLine, which states that EA is refusing to remove in-game loot boxes while other companies like Blizzard and 2K have done so in titles like Overwatch and NBA 2K19.
Publishers are required to remove loot boxes and similar systems from titles after a Belgian Gaming Commission ruling in August that equated the functionality to gambling. While 2K has complied, it’s asked that players lobby the Belgian government to have the functionality reinstated.
According to (the translated) Neiuwsblad, the Belgian Gaming Commission has issued an “official report” to EA, which reads, “Anyone who does not conform to the risk of legal prosecution. It is now up to the Brussels public prosecutor’s office.”
We’ll have more on the story as it comes to light.
FIFA 19 heads to Windows PC, Xbox One, PS4 and Switch on 28 September.
This article may contain affiliate links, meaning we could earn a small commission if you click-through and make a purchase. Stevivor is an independent outlet and our journalism is in no way influenced by any advertiser or commercial initiative.
