Description: Microtransactions are small purchases made within a game that allow players to acquire additional content, upgrades, or aesthetic items. These transactions have become a common feature in the video game industry, especially in free-to-play titles, where players can access the game at no initial cost. Microtransactions can include a variety of items, such as characters, skins, weapons, virtual currencies, or season passes. Their implementation aims to enhance the user experience by offering customization and competitive advantages, although they have also generated controversy regarding the ethics of their use, especially in games aimed at younger audiences. As the metaverse and online gaming evolve, microtransactions have been integrated into broader experiences, allowing players to interact and socialize in virtual environments while making purchases that enrich their gaming experience.
History: Microtransactions began to gain popularity in the late 2000s, with the rise of mobile gaming and free-to-play business models. One of the first significant examples was ‘FarmVille’, released in 2009, which allowed players to purchase upgrades and items within the game. Since then, the use of microtransactions has expanded across various platforms and genres, becoming an important source of revenue for developers and publishers.
Uses: Microtransactions are primarily used to monetize free-to-play games, allowing developers to generate ongoing revenue. They are also employed in paid games to offer additional content, such as expansions or aesthetic items. Furthermore, in the context of the metaverse, microtransactions facilitate the purchase of digital assets, such as virtual land or customized avatars.
Examples: Examples of microtransactions include ‘Fortnite’, where players can purchase skins and emotes, and ‘Candy Crush Saga’, which offers additional lives and boosters. In the metaverse, platforms like ‘Decentraland’ allow users to purchase virtual land and objects through microtransactions.
