Wellbeing Notices

Games or Gambling?? Telling the difference between games and gambling can be difficult

You might have seen the advert on TV where a young person tells about how as long as she can remember, advertisements on TV channels have promoted gambling on sport. It is no wonder people become addicted to gambling when they have been exposed to it so much. Added to that, there are thousands of free apps and video games available that mimic gambling and it’s getting harder to work out the difference between gaming and gambling.

Gambling themed apps are widely available and look fun and easy. Many apps use inflated odds, giving a false impression of how easy it is to win in real life.

On top of this, advertising on many of these apps and games leads to real gambling sites, creating an easy pathway from simulated gambling to actual gambling.

Video games like Grand Theft Auto and The Sims, and even complimentary games on Nintendo DS consoles, feature gambling by including casino and poker machine elements. 

Australian research shows teenagers playing these games may:

• think gambling is a normal, everyday activity
• be more inclined to take up gambling
• be more confident about winning due to false beliefs about gambling odds.

Even though teenagers can’t win real money from these apps or games, they can spend money on in-app purchases to boost their chances in the game. These often cost only a few dollars but a player who is completely absorbed can quickly rack up expenses.

Despite this, the good news is that you can help your child understand how gambling actually works. It’s important to remember that you don’t have to be an expert before you talk to your teenager. These games are constantly evolving, and you can’t be expected to know every detail about them. The key is to talk to them about how these games make gambling feel normal and can be misleading about the chances of winning – so next time they come across one of these games, they’ll be more aware of the risks involved. 

Ask your teenager about the apps or games they like to play or have a look at the trending games on the App Store or Google Play together and see if you can spot any gambling-related features. Tell them these games might be using inflated odds to make it seem like it’s easy to win or mention how small in-app purchases can quickly add up. 

For more information about games that look and feel like gambling and how to talk to your teen about them, go to https://lovethegame.vic.gov.au/ 

- Josie Mitchell, Secondary School Nurse