Against Predatory Game Mechanics

The Problem: Developers/producers are utilizing various unethical and predatory methods of monetizing their games, such as predatory gambling via loot boxes, purchasing advantages with real money and FOMO (fear of missing out) tactics.

The Why: Tactics such as these target venerable consumer groups with concepts designed to drain them of money with little to no return.

The Solution: Encourage consumers to boycott certain games and certain companies that are utilizing these tactics and to purchase and support those who are refusing to use these tactics. Vote with your Wallet is the idea that every time you purchase a game or otherwise spends money, you are supporting, or voting for, the actions that developer makes.

To find out more about voting-with-your-wallet, click here

Some types of predatory mechanics:

Gambling Tactics
 		Lootboxes/gambling mechanics: introducing a system, purchased with real money or a premium currency, that gives out randomized returns. Like a slot machine, the player is encouraged to try again and again to get the "jackpot", even with the odds stacked against them. New jackpots are introduced frequently so even people who are lucky enough to get the previous one are incentivized to keep playing. These often prey on children and individuals with low self-control, draining them of their money as they try for new jackpot after new jackpot.
Pay to win mechanics: implementing a system whereby real money is used to create an advantage over other players, while also increasing the bar of what that advantages is, encouraging the player to make continued purchases to maintain that advantage. Another example is introducing arbitrary wait times to mundane activates, encouraging spending money to bypass these.
Pay to Win Tactics
Fear of Missing Out Tactics
 		FOMO mechanics: introducing a desirable item or aspect for a limited time, encouraging consumers to purchase it to avoid missing out.

Pre-order is a kind of FOMO mechanic involving committing to purchase before the game is even out, enticed by bonus that leave after release. It’s asking to pay for a product before it is even finished or presented to the consumer.

Stephan Donlon takes full responsibility for the information posted. The information on this page represents that of Stephan Donlon and not that of California State University, Sacramento.