VISUAL IDENTITY AND GAMBLING IN THE COUNTER-STRIKE LOOT-BOX ECOSYSTEM.

This paper analyses the visual culture of the Counter-Strike loot box ecosystem, defined as the set of images, game mechanics and marketing strategies associated with it. The analysis reveals the potential risks posed by the visual culture of this ecosystem, particularly in relation to the whitewashing of problematic practices and the use of casino game mechanics in a video game that is accessible to minors. The paper concludes by demonstrating how the visual identity of a product can influence the impact of its practices on vulnerable populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]