In 2021, the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) introduced several reforms regarding the regulation of online slot machines. These reforms have now been shown to have led to a reduced level of play intensity. Further evaluation revealed no negative effects on player behavior since their implementation.
The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) has assessed that the changes introduced in 2021 regarding online slots have had the desired effect. This was communicated by the British regulatory body on its website. The UKGC implemented these new rules to ensure a decrease in play intensity for online slot machines.
Since October 2021, the British regulator has banned the following features:
- Slot spin speeds faster than 2.5 seconds.
- Features that accelerate the game or create an illusion of control over the outcome.
- Autoplay.
- Visual or auditory cues that create an illusion of winning when the actual return is equal to or lower than the amount wagered.
Additionally, since 2021, gambling operators are required to display the player’s total loss or win, as well as the total time played during the online slot session. Lastly, a permanent ban on reversing a withdrawal of funds was implemented. This measure aimed to prevent players from gambling away their winnings.
The research conducted has shown that there have been some behavioral changes among players in online casinos. Evidence was found indicating a reduced level of play intensity since the implementation of these changes. The watchdog also did not observe an increase in bets in response to the limitation of spin speeds.
Tim Miller, Director of Policy and Research at the UKGC, stated the following:
“Our assessment of the changes to online slots has shown indications of reduced play intensity without significant negative effects on the game or behaviour.
“That is positive, but we are not complacent and will continue to monitor this specific sector for unintended circumstances or non-compliance.”
During the evaluation conducted by the UKGC, hypotheses that could undermine the effectiveness of the changes were also examined. However, the British regulator found no evidence supporting these claims. Since their implementation in 2021, the UKGC has not observed any negative effects on player behavior.
