The debate over whether or not loot boxes are a type of gambling just saw the scales tip in favor of gambling. Around the world, different countries have held different opinions on whether or not the video game additions should be considered gambling, but the scales have been fairly evenly balanced – until now. A recent study has determined that there is a “clear link” between gambling and loot boxes.

The study was conducted by researchers with the University of British Columbia (UBC). It found, according to the study’s authors, undeniable proof that gamers who regularly purchase loot boxes are more inclined to ignore gambling addiction and shrug it off as a non-issue.

In order to perform the study, the researchers solicited the help of 257 individuals, who were put into two groups. The first group contained 144 online gamers from the US and the second, 113 undergraduate students.

All participants were given a questionnaire that included entries regarding loot boxes. The answers given by the participants were tallied and then compared against what is considered to be basic criteria used to determine problem gambling. In accordance with that comparison, the majority of those who had participated in the study believe that loot boxes are a form of gambling.