Many online games use micro-transactions to RuneScape Gold make enormous profits. This is a decision that is considered to be a risk by the majority of players. So as long as the game remains enjoyable and balanced there's no issue. Micro-transactions could be harmful to the spirit of the game and some companies do not permit the use of micro-transactions. Jagex might have taken such a stand in the past. The Guardian quoted Mark Gerhard, Jagex CEO, as saying:
"A number of free games are misleading since they're not. They rely heavily on the microtransactions system that is actually a stealth tax. I prefer to call this death by a thousand cuts," Mark Gerhard (chief executive of RuneScape) tells Jagex.
His games only use advertising revenue streams as well as membership revenue streams. There aren't any in-game transactions. The whole thing is about psychology. It's easier to make money from someone taking 20c off per item than to ask them for $10 upfront. Commercially, you can consider it a fantastic opportunity. In terms of ethics, it could be said to devalue the product.
You will then be able to observe the dilemma presented to players in the Squeal of Fortune update on April 2nd, 2012: specifically, the ability to purchase additional spins. You could get enough experience playing the wheel to get to the 99th level if you put in enough money in real-world transactions.
Jagex's continued silence has frustrated members and led many to Buy OSRS Fire Cape cancel memberships. We are hopeful Jagex will provide an explanation and make an effort to address the anger voiced by players in the weeks ahead.
