Microtransactions: Saving or Ruining Video Games?

Microtransactions have become increasingly common in video games, often requiring players to spend real money to access in-game items or advantages. A microtransaction is the purchase of a virtual item for small amounts of money, such as in-game currency, loot boxes, character skins, etc. While microtransactions support and encourage the development of new games, their increased use has come under scrutiny for being exploitative and leading to addiction, especially among young players. You can check out some of the pros and cons of microtransactions.

What do you and your peers think about microtransactions? Talk to 3-5 people about their personal experiences. Discussion questions might include: Have you purchased a virtual good? What type? Do you think microtransactions contribute to gaming addiction? Should microtransactions be banned? Would you rather pay for a game upfront or use it for free with microtransactions? Would you rather have ads in games or microtransactions?

Summarize your findings and advise a game publisher (of your favorite game) on how they can change their practices or propose an alternative.