How do online games trick you into spending more money?
Online games are fun and engaging, but many are designed to make players spend more. Developers use psychological tricks, rewards, and social pressure to encourage in-game purchases. Understanding these tactics can help you control spending and enjoy games without overspending. The good news is, once you learn of these suggestions/nudges, you can continue to experience the game as you intended (on your terms) (without losing your spending limit). Additionally, you will have fun along the way without spending additional funds!
Most popular methods in online games
Online games employ various mechanisms to have players spend money. They are constructed so that spending becomes natural, required, or thrilling. This is how it happens.
1. Withdrawing with online money instead of hard cash
Most games employ virtual currency such as gems, coins, or tokens rather than actual money. Spending 500 gems does not have the same effect as paying $5. It becomes very simple to forget the amount you are actually spending. The small spends accumulate over time without you even being aware of it.
2. Limited-time offers create panic
Games come with limited offers. You notice this offer and the timer. This creates this urge in you that you will miss out if you do not get it now, even when you do not necessarily need it.
3. Mystery boxes make you keep buying
There are certain games that incorporate random loot boxes. You don’t know what is in them until you purchase them. Because the valuable prizes are not easily available, you keep spending and waiting for something nice. It actually does feel a great deal like gambling.
4. Charging for electricity
Many games keep allowing players to purchase good weaponry or upgrades. Otherwise, there would be no way to proceed or overtake other players without spending money. This forces players to spend money just to keep up with others.
5. Your friends and teams make you spend
When your friends or teammates have good clothes, weapons, or abilities, you do not want to lag behind. Even some games force team members to spend to perform well, which is another pressure.
How small transactions add up
The majority of video games generate revenue via small purchases, or microtransactions. While each small purchase seems insignificant, they can quickly accumulate.
1. The “just one more” mentality
They quote, “It’s just a few dollars,” and continue playing.
Small transactions constantly slip through but sum up over time.
2. Packages that look like a bargain
Games provide discounts on packages of items or virtual currency.
They purchase in bulk to “save money.”
3. Automatic renewals and subscription plans
Others charge you a monthly subscription fee for special privileges.
Players disregard auto-renewals and simply continue to pay.
The role of social pressure
Sites like 91-club.cx provide insights into how online gaming companies use these tactics to generate more revenue. Now, let’s check the roles:
1. Limited events and FOMO
- In-game special events create an urgency to spend.
- Fear of missing out (FOMO) leads players to purchase unique items.
2. Competitive advantage
- Paid upgrades allow players to perform better in ranks or battles.
- Watching people use high-value products is pressuring one to purchase.
Conclusion
Online games use smart marketing and psychological tricks to encourage players to spend money. They create time-limited promotions, loot boxes, and use social pressure to get players to spend money without them even noticing. Knowing these tricks enables players to control their spending and play responsibly.