Are children's "loot boxes" in video games a route to gambling?

Since research has linked loot boxes to gambling addiction, lawmakers from several nations have questioned their legality, but prohibitions are difficult to enact. Parents are aware that kids spend money on video games, but in-game transactions that are less obvious may eventually cause concern, according to experts. Loot boxes, which are essentially virtual "treasure chests" with potential rewards hidden inside various video games, have been linked in some studies to gambling addiction. A player can use real money to buy randomized in-game goodies called loot boxes. They include both game-enhancing goods and cosmetic items that may be used to change the appearance of characters and weaponry.