Following pressure from governments and welfare groups, videogame companies have agreed to replace in-game loot boxes with something less controversial and potentially damaging.
Starting in 2021, in place of loot boxes, gamers will be able to collect virtual vouchers that can be exchanged for cigarettes.
“I guess it works out as about one cigarette for one loot box,” explained Stewart James, head of in-game bastardy at a leading videogame company.
“Obviously, you’ll have to wait until you’ve collected twenty vouchers to exchange them, though.
“Unless, of course, you’ve got one of those sweet shops nearby that sells single cigarettes like in the good old days.”
Mr James went on to explain that the videogame industry was attempting to change its ways for the better.
“I think now that the evidence is clear that loot boxes are a gateway into gambling so we’ve had to replace them with something that is less damaging to the young people who enjoy our games.
“I think that a pack of cigarettes is exactly that.”
However, despite Mr James’ enthusiasm, there are people who disagree that encouraging gamers with cigarettes is a positive step.
“Oh, don’t worry, we’ve thought that through,” he said, reassuringly.
“Some games will have vouchers for fast food and whisky as well.”
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