In-game purchases and loot boxes: how to set spending limits

Many games are free to start and then ask for money in small amounts: gems, skins, loot boxes and season passes. Small purchases add up quickly, especially when a card is saved on the account.

This guide explains the terms, how kids end up spending, and the real controls on PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Steam and phones. A spending illustrator shows how a monthly limit changes the picture.