Video games are a popular form of entertainment, but they can also be a source of frustration and temptation for many players. Some games use various tactics to persuade you to spend more money on them, even after you have already paid for them. Here are some of the ways video games trick you into spending money and how to avoid them.
Monetizing Basic Mechanics and Modes
Some games charge you extra for features that should be included in the base game. For example, some online games require you to pay a monthly subscription to access multiplayer modes, even though you have already bought the game. Other games lock basic features behind in-game purchases, such as additional character slots, inventory space, or game modes. These practices make you feel like you are missing out on something if you don’t pay more.
How to avoid this trick: Before buying a game, check the fine print or terms and conditions to see if there are any hidden fees or subscriptions. Also, follow the coverage of the game to see if other players have complained about any unfair monetization strategies.
Psychological Tactics Used for In-Game Purchases
Many games use psychological manipulation to make you buy in-game items or currency, especially in free-to-play games. These tactics rely on cognitive biases or emotional responses to make microtransactions seem more appealing or necessary. Some of these tricks are:
- The icebreaker: A cheap and valuable offer that turns you into a purchaser and makes you more likely to buy again.
- The hot state: A time-limited offer that triggers an impulse decision instead of rational thinking.
- Loss aversion: A threat of losing rewards or progress if you don’t buy something.
- The sunk cost fallacy: A tendency to keep spending money on something because you have already invested in it.
- The social proof: A display of other players’ purchases or achievements that makes you want to join them.
- Scarcity: A limited availability of items or offers that creates a sense of urgency and exclusivity.
How to avoid this trick: Always take the time to really consider a purchase and whether it’s necessary or valuable. Don’t let emotions or peer pressure influence your decisions. Set a budget and stick to it. Remember that you can always stop playing a game if it becomes too frustrating or expensive.
Disguising the True Cost of Items
Game publishers have also learned a variety of ways to disguise the true cost of items from players. This means that you’re more likely to underestimate how much you are actually spending. Some of these tricks are:
- The Premium currency: A virtual currency that you buy with real money and then use to buy items in the game. This makes it harder to track how much you are spending and creates a psychological distance between your money and the items.
- The bundle: A package of items that seems like a good deal but may include things you don’t need or want. This makes you feel like you are getting more value for your money but also encourages you to spend more than you intended.
- The discount: A temporary reduction in price that makes you think you are saving money but may actually make you spend more than you would otherwise. This also creates a sense of urgency and fear of missing out.
How to avoid this trick: Always compare the prices of items in different currencies and formats. Don’t be fooled by artificial discounts or bundles. Calculate the real value and cost of items before buying them.
Conclusion
Video games can be fun and rewarding, but they can also be manipulative and exploitative. By being aware of the tricks that games use to make you spend money, you can enjoy them without falling into their traps. Remember that you are in control of your gaming experience and your wallet.
