A loot box is a virtual container that gives randomized rewards when opened. The rewards may be cosmetic items, characters, boosts, currency, cards, or equipment.
Why loot boxes are controversial
The random nature of loot boxes can make them exciting, but it can also raise concerns about spending, transparency, odds, and whether paid randomness affects gameplay fairness.
Cosmetic versus gameplay rewards
A cosmetic loot box changes appearance only. A gameplay loot box may affect power, progression, or competition. Players often judge these very differently.
Loot boxes are related to gacha games, microtransactions, and live-service reward systems.