UKGC Launches Public Consultation on Online Slot Redesign

The UK Gambling Commission is currently exploring the potential for changing the mechanics of online slot games. In an effort to better protect players from gambling addiction, the regulator has launched a public consultation to gather feedback on whether slots require significant revisions.

According to data from the GC, around 1.2% of adults in Britain are spending excessive amounts on gambling. It has been observed that individuals who spend more often engage with specific features in slot games, making these features a high-risk factor for those struggling with gambling harm.

The UKGC has stated that elements such as speed of play and frequency of betting opportunities can contribute to compulsive gaming behavior. This recent initiative is a response to a previous failed attempt at implementing changes to slot game designs.

Industry Work Group Fails to Implement Changes

Despite previous efforts by the UKGC, including appointing Playtech and Scientific Games, progress has not been made. The Commission states that these companies have not met the desired objectives.

These objectives included placing limitations on certain features or removing them altogether. For example, turbo or slam stops features were deemed undesirable by the Commission. The work group was also tasked with implementing a minimum game cycle requirement.

Regulators have also suggested removing split-screen games entirely. When explaining these decisions, the UKGC simply stated that their commitment to reducing gambling harm remains a top priority.

Some industry organizations have voiced concerns that the UKGC is attempting to overly restrict the industry without sufficient justification. As it stands, the number of individuals experiencing gambling harm is relatively low, making it difficult to understand the sudden and significant impact these changes would have on the industry.

Combining Public Opinion with Work Group Recommendations

However, the UKGC is open to considering all suggestions, including those presented in reports by Playtech and Scientific Games. The regulator will take into account recommendations from all licensees and seek input from industry professionals and companies that may be affected by these changes.

One proposed change is to revise the definition of online slots. The industry has suggested updates to the remote gambling and software technical standards (RTS).

Specifically, the Advisory Board for Safer Gambling (ABSG) recommends limiting players to only one active game at a time. Some individuals who livestream their online casino sessions often utilize split-screen capabilities along with auto-play features, resulting in excessive spending.

In addition, regulators propose a minimum spin speed of 2.5 seconds in games as a way to allow players to still enjoy gameplay while slowing down overall gaming pace. This measure is intended to reduce gambling harm.

The Commission is also discussing enforcement methods for these changes. According to regulators, an independent testing house can assess whether slots comply with the new measures. If discrepancies are found, the testing house can restrict a specific game or an entire portfolio from the company in question.