Singapore’s Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRA) is exploring new ways to engage with players and give operators the ability to introduce new features.
The regulator has launched a public consultation on the introduction of in-game marketplaces that would allow players to trade items among themselves without involving third parties.
This could significantly expand gamification opportunities for Singaporean operators, enabling players to interact with new in-game elements – from skins to graffiti and similar virtual items.
Detailing the potential changes, the GRA stated: “In-game marketplaces are sometimes included as part of the design of games to enhance the player experience. Many players use these in-game marketplaces to trade and obtain game items to enhance their gaming experience. These player-to-player transactions are also taking place on third-party platforms outside the game environment. They do not pose law-and-order or social concerns.
“Therefore, GRA proposes to amend the condition in paragraph 3(b)(iv) to allow operators of Type 2 RGOC to provide in-game marketplaces for players to trade prizes among themselves in exchange for money or money equivalent. Operators will not be allowed to buy back prizes from players through these marketplaces so as to avoid gambling inducement. We will also require that prizes exchanged in in-game marketplaces be designed for use within the game or related games only.”
The public feedback period is open until August 20.
Notably, other Asian countries are following Singapore’s lead when it comes to gaming regulation. Singapore’s latest moves toward online gaming engagement could mark the beginning of a new era – both in how players interact with games and how other jurisdictions regulate increasing levels of gamification.
It was previously reported that Vietnam’s Ministry of Finance plans to revise its gambling regulations, following Singapore’s model, which restricts local residents from participating in casinos.
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