Microtransactions are one of the most profitable new parts of the gaming industry, and one of the most reviled. But what are they?

Microtransactions are purchases made during a game.

Most games that contain microtransactions are offered free of charge. However, in order to play extra levels or access certain features, you will have to pay.

The concept of ‘loot boxes’, in which players pay a fee for a random assortment of items, is considered by many to be a form of underage gambling, and there have been calls for it to be banned.

Brian Lloyd joined us for our weekly gaming slot to discuss whether microtransactions really are a form of gambling.