After dropping the FIFA brand name and continuing as EA Sports FC, the game still maintains the addictive nature of its Ultimate Team (FUT) mode. Even though the game’s pack opening system shows the probability of getting certain player groups, it continues to cause controversy in many countries. The Austrian court has delivered its verdict on whether FUT pack openings should be considered gambling.
Austrian court: FUT pack opening cannot be considered gambling!
There has been a significant legal development regarding FUT packs, one of the most controversial features of Electronic Arts’ (EA) popular football game EA Sports FC 24 (formerly FIFA). The Vienna Higher Regional Court ruled that the FIFA Ultimate Team (FUT) packs do not fall under the scope of gambling.
The court based its decision on several factors: First, it determined that players purchase FUT packs for in-game use, not to gain financial benefit. Evaluating the case within the framework of Austrian gambling laws, it emphasized that since there is no economic risk involved, the system cannot be classified as a game of chance.
Another key point in the ruling was that FUT packs cannot be considered separate from the game as a whole. The court stated that FIFA is primarily a game of skill, not chance, and that the pack system should be evaluated within this context.
EA officials welcomed the decision, emphasizing that in-game purchases offer players freedom of choice and that most players can enjoy the game without spending money. In their statement, the company said, “We design our games to offer choice, fairness, value, and fun. We welcome the court’s decision that FUT packs are not gambling.”
While legal authorities’ decisions must be respected, it’s hard not to think that Austrian legal bodies may be unaware of the ‘coin selling’ phenomenon and the vast economy it drives.
What do you think about this issue? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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