Everyone loves a good surprise; it’s half the fun of gaming! Whether it's unlocking a bonus level or coming across an ultra-rare skin, these unpredictable moments keep players engaged.
But as the industry has developed, not all surprises have been welcome. Loot boxes, which initially seemed like a creative idea to add excitement to the overall experience, have paved the way for much controversy.
Now, in-game raffles are getting attention as a possible alternative. These work like structured lotteries: random, but clear in how they function. Raffles aren’t new, either. Just look at verified online raffles that offer prizes like cash, vacations, spa packages, and more. They’ve already found success in other industries. So, could this model fit the gaming world too, and maybe even do what loot boxes no longer can?
Loot Boxes Lost Their Magic
Initially, loot boxes were exciting. You'd complete a round, open a box, and hope for something rare. Part of the excitement was the mystery. However, over the years, that enthusiasm began to wane. Players started to realize the trend: lots of money, no payoff. No longer did it seem like progress; it was more like gambling in disguise.
Games such as FIFA and Overwatch were heavily criticized for how they encouraged players to spend continuously. A skin, a weapon that barely made a difference in the game, yet the urge to try again never faded. Governments took notice, too. Belgium and the Netherlands have prohibited certain types of loot boxes altogether.
For studios, loot boxes are a very lucrative source of revenue, but the resulting mistrust is difficult to deny. Players still want surprise and excitement, just without the sense of being taken advantage of.
Raffles Bring Back the Fun
Raffles counters that notion. Instead of forcing endless purchases, they create a single event for players to earn or purchase entries, and then draw winners at a predetermined time. The rewards can be skins, mounts, gear, whatever is in line with the game's theme. Everyone has an opportunity, and it's more of a community thing than a money grab.
Some titles are already experimenting with this. In Final Fantasy XIV, there are small raffling events run by player guilds for items or cosmetic gear. It is simple, social, and nobody can buy their way to victory. The structure is also well liked by developers. It maintains high engagement while sidestepping the negative publicity that comes with loot boxes.
The Shift Players Wanted
Raffles and loot boxes are both based on chance, but the experience is radically different. Loot boxes are the polar opposite of raffles; they encourage rush and impatience, while raffles encourage patience. One builds anxiety, the other builds anticipation. A loot box moment lasts a second or two; a raffle grows towards a collective prize that brings players together.
Money is less of a factor, as well. Loot boxes reward those with a pocket full of money. Raffles reward patience, effort, and timing.
The change is refreshing for players. The excitement of randomness is still there, but the stress is missing. In short, it's a softer type of surprise!
Raffles Might Actually Work
Raffles give players a clear system. You purchase or buy a ticket, wait, and see what it draws. There’s no endless cycle, no hidden odds, no pressure to keep spending. That kind of setup makes it easier to keep things fair, and harder for developers to cross the line.
If executed properly, raffles can be integrated into games without sacrificing the balance. Players will most likely remain interested, and games will be fair. Compared to loot boxes, it’s a cleaner deal all around!