MEPs Nicolás González Casares and Laura Ballarín Cereza (both S&D) have asked the European Commission whether it considers that very large online platforms and app store gatekeepers bear greater responsibility when profiting from harmful monetisation systems targeting minors, and whether it will launch an investigation into systemic risks posed by mobile gaming ecosystems.
The written question, submitted on 22 May 2026, cites the mobile game Age of Origins as allegedly using manipulative monetisation systems including dark patterns, misleading advertising, simulated gambling mechanics, and promotion of speculative crypto-assets whose collapse caused financial losses. The MEPs also raise concerns about inadequate moderation of hate speech and violent threats within the game's social environment, and inconsistent Pan-European Game Information (PEGI) ratings across platforms.
Concrete asks and policy direction
The question contains three concrete asks: first, whether the Commission considers that very large online platforms under the Digital Services Act (DSA) and gatekeepers under the Digital Markets Act (DMA) bear greater responsibility in such cases; second, whether the Commission will consider launching an investigation or coordinated enforcement action into systemic risks to consumers' mental health, financial security and fundamental rights; third, how the Commission will strengthen EU-wide protection for minors against loot boxes, simulated gambling and manipulative monetisation mechanisms through the upcoming Digital Fairness Act and the revision of the Consumer Protection Cooperation Regulation.
The MEPs' policy orientation is clearly towards stricter regulation of mobile gaming monetisation, particularly where minors are concerned. They frame the issue as a consumer protection failure under existing EU law (Unfair Commercial Practices Directive, DSA, DMA) and call for stronger enforcement and new legislative measures.
Expected follow-up
The Commission is expected to reply within approximately six weeks. Its answer will signal whether it shares the MEPs' concerns and whether it plans to take enforcement action or propose new rules in the upcoming Digital Fairness Act. The question puts pressure on the Commission to address a growing area of consumer vulnerability in digital markets.