Overview and Definition
Crossy Road is an endless runner-style mobile video game developed by Hipster Whale, released in 2014 for Android and iOS devices. At first glance, the game appears to be a simple and entertaining platformer where players navigate their character through various environments to reach specific goals or avoid obstacles. However, beneath its seemingly innocuous surface lies a unique blend of casual gaming and gambling themes that have sparked debate among gamers and regulatory bodies worldwide.
How the Concept Crossy Road gambling game Works
Crossy Road incorporates microtransactions and rewards systems reminiscent of casino-style games. Players collect coins, which can be spent on in-game items or characters called “chars.” These chars are unlocked by accumulating a set amount of coins, with each character being based on real-life individuals from various fields such as celebrities, historical figures, or fictional characters from TV shows or movies.
The game’s store is filled with over 200 chars to collect. Each one has its own price tag in the form of coins or gems (the premium currency), and players can purchase them using either method. When a player earns enough coins to unlock a character, they are rewarded by unlocking their char slot for that specific character. This means players must make conscious choices regarding which chars they want to prioritize collecting.
Types or Variations
Crossy Road has several features that have drawn attention from critics and casual gamers alike:
- Daily Rewards: Players receive free rewards each day, including gems, coins, and in-game items.
- Limited-Edition Chars: Hipster Whale occasionally releases limited-edition characters for special events or collaborations with franchises like Marvel and Disney.
- Event Modes: The game features various event modes that challenge players to perform specific tasks within time limits. These events often come with exclusive rewards.
Legal or Regional Context
Crossy Road’s approach to microtransactions and rewards has raised questions regarding its alignment with gambling regulations worldwide:
- In 2015, the Australian Government launched an inquiry into video games’ impact on young Australians after expressing concerns about Crossy Road.
- The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) took note of the game in their annual report on violent content and gambling themes in media.
- New Zealand’s Chief Censor raised similar issues with the New Zealand Parliament.
Free Play, Demo Modes, or Non-Monetary Options
Crossy Road offers a limited-time “demo mode” for new players to test gameplay without using coins. This allows interested individuals to experience the game’s challenges and features before deciding whether to spend in-game currency on premium content. Although not an ideal substitute for free play modes found in some other games, it still serves as a gateway into the full version.
Real Money vs Free Play Differences
While playing Crossy Road does not involve real money betting like traditional casinos, its microtransactions can be considered virtual gambling. Here’s why:
- Coins and Gems: Players spend accumulated coins on in-game items or premium currency (gems). The game encourages players to buy gems with their credit cards.
- Reward Schedules: Gamers receive limited free rewards daily, while most content requires the purchase of premium goods using either method.
Advantages and Limitations
Crossy Road has gained a significant following worldwide:
Key Benefits:
- Endless Replay Value: With endless modes that randomly generate maps for each play session, players experience different paths every time.
- Variety of Chars: There’s an extensive library featuring recognizable individuals across various fields and domains.
However, limitations exist as well:
- Monetary Model Criticisms: Players are expected to spend in-game currency on premium goods using real money transactions, blurring the lines between a game and casino-style gambling.
- Obsessive Nature: The structure rewards persistence over skillful playing.