Microtransactions are a contentious topic in the gaming world, with many decrying small purchases like loot boxes and weapon skins in triple-a games. And while anti-loot box legislation is seemingly always on the table these days, for the most part, microtransactions aren't going anywhere. However, Xbox is taking steps to thwart children from spending money on microtransactions or even just making too many purchases in general.

Over on the Xbox Wire, Microsoft shared an update coming to the Xbox Family Settings app that will limit the amount of money a user can spend with a single account. According to Microsoft, the company had received feedback about such a feature, which can be used by parents to reward good behavior or establish an allowance. Microsoft specifically cited in-app purchases, which mostly means microtransactions, as one of the transactions that can be limited.

RELATED: Xbox Live Gold is Reportedly Going to 'Go Away' and Be Discontinued

The new spending-limiting features run a little bit deeper than just setting a limit, though. Parents will be given the option to allow or deny their children spending money in the Microsoft Store, and can also keep tabs on account balance in the app if they'd like to see how much their child is spending. The post goes on to say that Xbox will continue to add similar features in the future, though it doesn't specify precisely what those will be.

Spending Limit app

It's not uncommon to hear about children that have racked up massive credit card bills due to spending on microtransactions. The rise of live service games has also fueled a sharp increase in in-game transactions, which can add up quickly for those that engage with them regularly. In December of last year, one 6-year-old spent $16,000 on microtransactions using their mom's credit card, which seems to be one of the specific circumstances that Xbox is trying to limit.

Those interested in the app can download it on either iOS or Android, where it's available for free. The Xbox Family Settings app includes other features that can help manage a child's account too, so it's a valuable tool for parents to use if they're worried about their child's console usage.

There aren't many alternatives on other platforms for managing a child's funds, though if it's effective it might become more popular. Accidental overspending on microtransactions is a big problem, especially in a digital age where spending is so easy. With any luck, this will help cut down on the issue significantly.

MORE: Every Video Game Release Coming Soon For Xbox Series X|S And Xbox One

Source: Xbox Wire