मुख्य जानकारी
The Bird & Bird Game Plan 2026 report identifies six major regulatory risks currently impacting the video game industry. As European Union and national authorities increase oversight, studios face a complex legal landscape involving artificial intelligence, consumer protection, and child safety.
Consumer protection remains a priority, with the EU Consumer Protection Cooperation Network enforcing principles regarding virtual currencies. These rules mandate transparent real-world pricing, the removal of cost-obscuring practices, and the right to withdraw from purchases. Additionally, the upcoming Digital Fairness Act may soon codify these concerns into binding law, potentially targeting dark patterns and addictive design elements like daily streaks.
AI integration now requires strict transparency under the EU AI Act. Providers must label machine-generated content, and interactive AI systems must be clearly identified to players. Meanwhile, the Digital Services Act imposes obligations on platforms hosting user-generated content, with the European Commission already designating Roblox as a very large online platform subject to the strictest duties.
Finally, gambling regulations and child safety measures are evolving. While loot box laws vary by jurisdiction, the proposed KIDS Act seeks to mandate child-safe defaults and parental tools for all accessible games. Experts advise that integrating these compliance measures early in the design process is essential to mitigate future costs.
