EU investigates nine video game firms over virtual currency concerns

The European Union is investigating nine video game companies over concerns their in-game virtual currencies may breach consumer rights, as reported by Dawn. The probe, coordinated by the EU's Consumer Protection Cooperation Network, involves firms including France's Ubisoft, Mojang, Riot Games, and Supercell.

The authorities identified several games for further study, including Candy Crush Saga, Minecraft, and Clash of Clans. This follows earlier talks with the companies which the EU executive said did not bring satisfactory results.

Authorities will now examine whether the companies' practices violate EU consumer law. The bloc's guidelines state that games must display the real-world price of in-game items and provide clear information before purchase, and must not force unwanted transactions on players.