Video games have been grappling with microtransactions for years, with players and developers alike often divided on whether they’re nice, optional extras or a way to squeeze players for extra money while actively diminishing the games they’re part of. Now, one developer is giving players a direct say in the future of microtransactions in its game, as a vote is currently underway over whether massively multiplayer online RPG RuneScape will remove its controversial Treasure Hunter activity.
Treasure Hunter was introduced to the long-running MMORPG in early 2014. It’s a simple feature where players can use keys to unlock treasure chests containing random rewards. Players get some keys for free, with the ability to purchase more with real money or earn them by watching ads. Elsewhere in RuneScape, real money can be used to purchase items that grant bonus experience points or improve character skills. While developer Jagex says these purchases give casual players a power up without the time investment, some players have argued that it’s essentially a pay-to-win system, where players who spend real money have a distinct advantage over those who aren’t.
