Microtransactions in the Gaming Industry

Artist Statement

This website covers the problems with microtransactions in video games. From loot boxes, to downloadable content, to pay-to-win games, the trend of microtransactions is growing in the video game industry and causing more outrage in the community. On this page of the website, there is the history of microtransactions along with additional articles and videos on the matter, and a live twitter feed following "#microtransactions".

On the next two pages, there is a video that showcases the upset with lootboxes and how senators are fighting back, and the other page has an infographic talking about the different types of microtransactions one may see, and how they lure gamers in.

History of Microtransactions

Many gamers are fed up that many games now offer loot boxes, downloadable content (DLC), and cosmetic changes for an extra price on top of the base game. Using an infographic and a remixed video, I plan to answer what microtransactions are and why they are hurting the gaming industry. I plan to use recent examples of how micro transactions have caused problems and spread fire to the gaming industry, like how game developer EA had to remove the micro transactions from Star Wars Battlefront 2 on Disney’s word, or how developers at Blizzard had to reveal their loot box probabilities due to Chinese Regulations.

The issue of micro transactions have gotten so bad that the Entertainment Software Ratings Board (ESRB) stated that every game with micro transactions must be lamed with an “In-Game Purchases” sticker, and even here in Washington State the gambling commission is trying to determine if loot boxes are gambling or not. While there is some good change, like Shadow of War removing all micro transactions from the game, consumers are still hurt and upset, and it will be a long time before the wounds really heal.