"Are raids the equivalent of lootboxes, and therefore a form of gambling?"

#PokemonGO: Wiki definition of lootbox: http://ift.tt/2uzMxXM"consumable virtual item which can be redeemed to receive a randomised selection of further virtual items""A loot box is typically a form of monetisation""The items that can be granted by a loot box are usually graded by "rarity", with the probability of receiving an item decreasing rapidly with each grade.""Some games may include seasonal or special event loot boxes which include specific items only available during the time of that event."The important quote: "Loot boxes are considered part of the compulsion loop of game design to keep players invested in a game. Such compulsion loops are known to contribute towards video game addiction and frequently compared to gambling addiction. This is in part due to the use of a "variable-rate reinforcement schedule" similar to how slot machines dole out prizes. While many players may never invest real money in a loot box system, such addictive systems can bring large monetary investments from "whales", players that are willing to spend the money to get new loot boxes."Different levels of raids give you different levels and quantities of rewards. Yes, some people raid for the XP, but I've also seen advice right here on TSR to do hundreds of raids so that you can get the 100% legendary, making it sound inevitable if you can just do one more raid.That's a gambling addiction mechanic right there -- one more round, and I'll win the jackpot. via /r/TheSilphRoad http://ift.tt/2hp4YFy