All EA Games to Include Microtransactions in the Future

[RaychelSnr]

Gaming as we know it is changing, and the future is now if you believe EA CFO Blake Jorgenson, who says EA plans to implement microtransactions in all of it's games in the future.

“We’re building into all of our games the ability to pay for things along the way, either to get to a higher level to buy a new character, to buy a truck, a gun, whatever it might be.” Jorgenson said at the Morgan Stanley Technology, Media and Telecom Conference.

"Consumers are enjoying and embracing that way of the business," Jorgenson added.

For those of you unfamiliar with them, microtransactions are small-scale items built into games that you have to pay physical money to actually own. We have seen microtransactions creep into sports games via ultimate team modes and card packs, as well as in Dynasty boosters and feature enhancements. It seems apparent that customers are paying money, lots of money, for microtransactions in gaming and it is leading the world's largest third party publisher to pursue them in every title.

It's unlikely EA will start charging for common features in their games, but rather will likely offer 'shortcuts' to players in the form of microtransactions. It's entirely plausible that ratings' boosts and more could become commonplace in the online realm if the microtransaction strategy is fully embraced. More likely, you will see microtransactions implemented as an 'in addition to' type of strategy, so as to not fully displease more avid fans of series.

Regardless, there is a definite vocal group of gamers who absolutely despise microtransactions -- but it seems apparent that EA sees profitability in this new model.

How do you see microtransactions being implemented in EA Sports games in the future? Do you like the idea of microtransactions?

[sweigner]

So does this mean games will be cheaper? that's why it works so well with apps. the apps are cheap so people will make in app purchases.

[Gotmadskillzson]

So does this means I can buy better AI DLC for their football games or buy pass interference being called or buy punt blocks or punts being returned for more then 10 yards. Can I buy classic teams ? Can I buy FCS schools for their NCAA football game series ?

Blah, I think we all knew this was coming when they started charging for alternate college uniforms last year. Nickel and dime us to death.

[GlennN]

Swell, so offline franchise will be ignored in favor of online gaming.

[aldon_47]

I saw the word "microtransaction" and for some reason immediately thought of things like team revenue aspects, adjusting contracts, that sort of thing and got really excited for a moment. BOY was I disappointed. Not surprised though.

[CM Hooe]

This shouldn't really be news, given the trends in the industry that have existed since Zynga popularized the idea of microtransactions.

[rsump112]

I don't mind spending a few dollars on a free iphone app, but I'm disgusted at the thought of paying $60 for a game only to be nickel and dimed to death afterwards

[jazzchamp]

Quote: Originally Posted by rsump112

I don't mind spending a few dollars on a free iphone app, but I'm disgusted at the thought of paying $60 for a game only to be nickel and dimed to death afterwards

This!
So much this!