The number of complaints from parents about “casino games” in children’s apps is growing.

In recent months, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of complaints from parents in various regions of India. They express concern that their children are spending more and more time on apps that appear to be harmless arcade games at first glance. These games use the same mechanics as gambling games. One of the most popular mechanics is the “falling ball game” called Plinko. Such visual games are dynamic and visually appealing.

The meaning of such a game is simple: a ball rolls down a board with pins. As a result, it falls into a cell with a number, and the player receives a virtual win depending on which cell the ball fell into. Today, such entertainment is extremely popular among Indian adults and can often be found in many online casinos. There are even specialized websites featuring the best Plinko casino sites in India. Such resources are designed to make it easier for users to find a suitable betting platform.

Of course, there are no real money bets in the children’s version, but the mechanics of traditional slot machines are replicated almost exactly. Behavioral psychology experts say that this gives minors a false idea of odds. Additionally, it fosters an interest in behavior based on chance. Children become accustomed to receiving dopamine rewards, which is a fundamental basis for the formation of gambling habits.

Rina Mehra, a psychologist from Noida, says that five parents have already approached her with complaints in the last two months. The essence of the complaints was always the same: children spend several hours a day playing the game. The players’ ages ranged from 8 to 13, and the game involved tracking the fall of a ball. The children lost interest in other types of leisure activities, which naturally caused concern for their parents, but this was not the only reason they sought professional help. The fact is that children began to ask their parents for money to spend on in-game upgrades. Accordingly, despite the external similarity to gamification, it looks more and more like players of this age are already using the same microtransactions as in gambling apps. 

There are games that indicate their focus directly. They accompany victory with lights and fanfare, and there are also visual effects that imitate a jackpot. That is, there is a clear visual identity with real online casinos. Some of these games are offered in official mobile app stores without any markings. They often have a rating of 3+ or higher.

A significant portion of these games is also available through third-party platforms, including file-sharing services, Telegram bots, and advertising links on Instagram and YouTube Shorts. They are explicitly aimed at a young audience and promise them the opportunity to relax simply.

One of the reasons for this situation is the lack of precise regulation for apps. The jurisdiction of betting legislation does not apply to such apps. At the same time, there is an initiative to strengthen control over microtransactions; however, no concrete steps have been taken to implement such an alternative.

Specific steps are being taken at the regional level. For example, meetings with parent committees were held in Mumbai and Hyderabad. Educators are also concerned about the condition of children, as many students appear irritable or depressed in class.

Games that use visual mechanics with falling balls have long been part of the digital environment that surrounds children and adolescents. They seem simple, but they form habits that can lead to serious addiction in the future. Early experiences are almost inextricably linked to a high level of interest in real gambling in adulthood.

Experts believe that bans alone will not solve the problem; education is just as important. Parents need to check the games their children install on their phones and teach them about manipulation and the principles of fair play. They need to explain that even games that seem harmless at first glance can lead them into a dangerous world.