But smartphones seem to be the preferred home of a more unique form of game, the gacha game.
What are these gacha games, and what is it that makes them so popular?
What Are Gacha Games?
Sometimes you may get something that is worth the price you paid for it.
In most cases, the reward is worth very little.
Unfortunately, the chances of actually “winning” in a gacha game are extremely slim.
The extent of a game’s gacha mechanics varies from title to title.
This forces the player into spending money if they want to move forward in their game.
These types of gacha games are arguably the most damaging and have even been banned in countries like Japan.
Where Did the Name “Gacha Game” Come From?
Those are gachapon, or gashapon machines.
You put in a coin and receive a random item in return.
This is almost exactly how these mechanics work in gacha games.
Why Are Gacha Games So Popular?
The strongest character in the game could be yours with just one more roll of the dice.
This removes the element of skill that is usually required in a game to collect the best rewards.
Anyone can be a pro if they spend enough money.
Many gacha games are also just incredibly fun in their own right.
Are Gacha Games a Form of Gambling?
Actually, there is one big difference between those two scenarios.
One requires you to be of legal age, and the other doesnt.