The MMO Genre Will Continue To Stagnate With Today’s Typical Micro-Transactions Barriers
It’s not like MMO games are just now appearing on the scene but I feel there’s been a huge change in the way developers create today’s online gaming experience. Previously I would have imagined developers creating their dream MMO game before evaluating monetization options but now I feel they literally come up with an idea to make money, and then just create a game around that concept.
Let me explain from both potential approaches to game development. The MOBA genre, although one of the youngest genres within the MMO space, has created an almost perfect monetization system that is both fair and rewarding. Players do not purchase any advantages in the game itself, merely new appearances for their favorite Champions or items. This approach has become universal across the MOBA genre and a very large portion of the MMO community are more than happy with that approach.
Then we have games that are the total polar opposite. We don’t care whether you progress at a ridiculous rate or destroy other players in 3-hits, you can pay for whatever you want and get it instantly. Although most MMO’s are slowing weening off the pay-to-win approach, it’s not entirely the norm yet. Experience points boosts, access to additional classes and characters, and sometimes even zones exclusive to premium members, these are just some of the rather ludicrous attempts to separate gamers from their hard earned cash.
The current state of financial models with the MMO space are severely restricting the growth of the genre. A developer can conjure an amazing idea for an MMO but without any seriously annoying monetization options, they’re unlikely to find a publisher. Sadly I cannot link a source but I know from personal experience that some big publishers actually request the developers they approach, asking them to add certain features and items to ensure successful monetization.
Do you think other genres could emulate the success of the MOBA genre or do you think anything free-to-play outside of MOBA’s is doomed to fail?
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