Slovakia tackles gambling risks for Gen-Z and Alpha audiences

A significant shift in prevention efforts for young media users is emerging in Slovakia. The state gambling regulatory authority (URHH) has entered into a far-reaching cooperation agreement with the Department of Digital Games at the Faculty of Mass Media Communication of the University of St Cyril and Methodius in Trnava (FMK UCM). This partnership is part of a new mandate called Safer Digital Future. At its core, the project seeks to redefine the boundaries between traditional gambling and modern video games, as these lines are increasingly blurred in the perception of young people. Authorities are concerned about how randomized rewards and monetary incentives are becoming part of the daily digital life of Generations Z and Alpha.

Particular attention is being paid to the psychological effects of digital reward systems. The URHH warns that modern monetization models and advanced game design specifically expose young people to mechanics that resemble traditional gambling products. Through this constant exposure, there is a risk that risk-taking behavior becomes normalized, shaping positive attitudes toward gambling before individuals even reach the legal minimum age for casinos. Scientists in Trnava are now tasked with providing the necessary data to counteract this development with evidence-based strategies.

Numbers and facts

The research coalition is scrutinizing two specific age groups deemed particularly vulnerable. In this context, Generation Z is defined as young people between the ages of 14 and 29, while Generation Alpha includes the group of 1 to 13-year-olds. This categorization makes it clear that educational work should begin in childhood. A central point of the investigation includes so-called loot boxes and skin betting, where virtual items are often acquired or gambled away using real money or gambling-like stakes. FMK UCM operates Slovakia's first comprehensive academic program for digital games, bringing high expertise to the partnership.

Libuša Baranová, Director General of URHH, underlined the urgency of this project. In her statement, she made it clear that authorities often lag behind technological developments, which must now change.

„For Generations Z and Alpha, technology is not just a tool, but a natural environment in which they shape their identity, social relationships and worldview. They perceive the digital and real world as one interconnected whole. Therefore, if we want to effectively protect the young generation from the risks of the digital age, we must be one step ahead."

Background

The political situation in Slovakia remains complex. While the URHH focuses on research, the National Council of the Slovak Republic continues to deliberate on a comprehensive reform of the Gambling Act of 2019. Online casinos have now become the largest sector of the market, leading to calls for stricter controls. Previously, the Minister for Sport and Tourism, Rudolf Huliak, presented a package of amendments that included significant restrictions on licenses. However, President Peter Pellegrini vetoed these specific changes. At the same time, he indicated that he would support a more comprehensive reform program that places consumer protection at the center. Against this backdrop, URHH's research work carries significant weight, as it could form the basis for future legislative adjustments.

Why it matters for German players

In Germany, the debate over loot boxes and the convergence of gaming and gambling is also a recurring topic. The State Treaty on Gambling 2021 (GlüStV 2021) already sets very narrow limits, although primarily for the regulated gambling market. German players registered with providers on the GGL whitelist benefit from strict protection measures such as the monthly deposit limit of 1,000 euros and the stake limit of 1 euro per spin for virtual slots. These rules are monitored by the central supervisory system LUGAS. However, the Slovak initiative shows that youth protection must begin long before entering a legal online casino. In Germany, critics often point out that mechanics in video games accessible to children could prepare the addiction potential of real gambling without the strict rules of the Joint Gambling Authority of the States (GGL) directly applying there.

What it means for GGL-licensed casinos

For casinos operating legally in Germany, the development in Slovakia signals a Europe-wide tougher stance on youth protection. Casinos with a German license must already carry out strict age verification and are not allowed to display advertising specifically targeting minors. If scientific studies from Slovakia prove that certain game mechanics lower the threshold to gambling, further restrictions on game design could also follow in Germany. The GGL has already made it clear that it has a special eye on marketing strategies that use social media and influencers to reach young target groups. Legal providers must therefore ensure that their products remain clearly separated from the gaming sector to avoid regulatory pressure.