The Gambling Commission has published its assessment of changes made to online games design. The rules were introduced in October 2021 and included the outright ban of four key features of online slots games:

• features that speed up play or give the illusion of control over the outcome;
• slot spin speeds faster than 2.5 seconds;
• auto-play - which can lead to players losing track of their play; and
• sounds or imagery which give the illusion of a win when the return is in fact equal to, or below, a stake.

The Commission's report shows reduced play intensity on online slots products since the changes were introduced. It also says that there is no increase in staking activity in response to the limit on spin speeds. The report shows no changes for some of the identified metrics with no negative affects observed. There has been no significant, negative impact on the enjoyment of the games on gamblers as a result of the changes.

The Commission points out that some of the identified outcomes will require longer-term monitoring. However, attributing any observed changes to those outcomes to the online game design changes will become increasingly difficult.

This work will be extended to a review of rules relating to intensity of play on other products. This was reflected in the Government's White Paper which announced a review of online game design rules to look at limiting speed of play and other characteristics which exacerbate risks. 

The Commission will consult on further proposals in summer 2023, and the impact of the 2021 changes to online slots products will be considered as part of the evidence base for the consultation into other online products and games.