A loot box is a virtual container in a video game that gives a randomly chosen reward when opened. Players may earn it through play or buy it with real or in-game currency, and the contents can range from common cosmetics to rare items.
Why it matters
Because the outcome is random and often paid for, loot boxes have drawn scrutiny from regulators, who have debated whether they resemble gambling. Rules differ widely by country and change over time, and some app stores and platforms require developers to disclose the odds. This is a definition only; check current local rules for specifics.
Example
A box lists these drop rates:
- Common item: 70%
- Rare item: 25%
- Legendary item: 5%
Each opening is an independent draw, so opening 20 boxes does not guarantee a legendary item. With a 5% chance, the probability of at least one in 20 openings is 1 - 0.95^20, about 64%.
Common misconceptions
- Boxes are "due" after many failures. Independent draws have no memory, unless the game states a pity system.
- All paid randomness is a loot box. Direct purchases and fixed DLC are not random.
- Published odds are always the same for every player. Check the game's own disclosure.
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