PEGI explains why they didn't flag NBA 2K20's slot machine mechanic as gambling

We share a trailer for NBA 2K20 the other day, which got a lot of people talking. The trailer showed a number of mechanics in the upcoming game, including a straightforward virtual slot machine. Many were upset to see this display in-game, following years of complaints about microtransactions. It also seemed a bit tone-deaf, considering recent efforts to get this kind of content labeled as gambling. How in the world is it that an actual representation of a slot machine wasn't enough to set off any red flags? PEGI has come forward to explain their lack of flagging.

PEGI says its gambling content descriptor doesn’t apply, as the mini-games int the title don't “encourage and/or teach the use of games of chance that are played/carried out as a traditional means of gambling.” They went on to say that “the controversial imagery played a central role in the trailer, but it may not necessarily do so in the game, which has not yet been released.” The content earned through these mini-games can't be purchased with real money, so there isn't actually anything that could be considered gambling by PEGI.

The explanation makes sense, but the decision to have mini-games play out as slot machines still doesn't sit will with some fans.