The loot box problem PhD candidate Shaun Garea Individuals with gambling problems and excessive gamers spend more on loot boxes than their peers, new research published in Loot boxes are virtual treasure chests – a randomised video game feature earned by gamers in order to customise characters or weapons. These contents may affect progress in the game, or simply be designed to convey status. Loot box revenue reached US$20 billion in 2021 – exceeding online casino revenue of US$3.2 billion. The study, entitled Meta-analysis of the relationship between problem gambling, excessive gaming and loot box spending, led by PhD candidate Shaun Garea investigated whether virtual items obtained in video games via loot boxes are purchased disproportionately by those with problem gambling and/or excessive gaming symptoms.