How monetization is implemented more and more subtly in gaming

Game developers and publishers are under increasing financial pressure, and it shows. Whether pay-2-win or sophisticated monetization systems – the mechanisms for asking players to pay are becoming increasingly sophisticated. But these strategies are increasingly met with criticism, especially with successful titles such as “Apex Legends”, “Call of Duty: Black Ops 6” and now “Marvel Rivals”. Three current examples that really annoy players!

Apex Legends: A masterpiece of monetization?

Once celebrated as a showcase project, “Apex Legends” is now more of a prime example of how monetization stifles innovation, according to pro gamers like HisWattson on Twitch. The streamer, who is one of the best players in the battle royale title, expressed criticism about the current developments in a video. In his opinion, EA, the game’s publisher, consistently ignores the suggestions of the development studio Respawn. Instead of focusing on cosmetic items, their prices increase while quality decreases.

New skins and items in the in-game shop make the game more expensive without enriching the gameplay. At the same time, old problems remain unsolved and real innovations remain? None. According to HisWattson, he is leaving the game because he no longer sees improvement – a harsher blow to an already growing gap between community and publisher.

There is no official statement from EA, but anger in the community is growing.

Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 – When Skins Become Pay-2-Win

“Call of Duty: Black Ops 6” is also currently struggling with heavy criticism. The main focus here is the accusation of pay-2-win. Certain skins impact gameplay so much that players feel disadvantaged if they don’t purchase them. An example is a skin that, when hit, creates a colored cloud that limits the enemies’ vision.

Players on Reddit are reporting how frustrating this mechanic can be. On the fast map “Stakeout,” for example, such a cloud caused players to blindly run into a trap – the opponent used the cover to continue undisturbed.

The decision by Activision and Treyarch is being heavily criticized in the forums. What impresses players is that these skins were deliberately designed to boost sales – at the expense of a fair gaming experience. “I can’t understand why people even buy this crap.” writes an annoyed player.

Marvel Rivals: Criticism despite puppy protection

As a relatively new live service title, “Marvel Rivals” got off to a strong start, but its monetization strategy is already causing discontent. The system surrounding Chrono Tokens, an in-game currency that expires at the end of a season, annoys many players.

Although the developer is trying to minimize the loss of tokens with an automatic redemption system, the core of the problem remains: players feel pressured to spend their resources quickly or buy the paid luxury battle pass in order to protect their investments.

Introducing a system where purchased tokens can be transferred next season is a step in the right direction – but only for players willing to pay extra. Tokens played for free are excluded from transfer, which many find unfair.

Games like “Apex Legends,” “Call of Duty: Black Ops 6,” and “Marvel Rivals” show how difficult it is to establish monetization systems without alienating the community. Many players feel that their loyalty is being exploited to maximize the publisher’s revenue. It remains to be seen whether the publisher will find the right middle ground – or whether the next big shitstorm is just a matter of time.