Microtransactions Are Part of Quality Gaming, According to Ubisoft
A statement in Ubisoft‘s annual financial report has sparked a serious debate, particularly among those who closely follow the gaming world. This statement, featured on page 10 of the company’s business model and strategies, argues that microtransactions make premium, full-priced gaming experiences more enjoyable. Ubisoft argues that players can access customization and accelerated progression options without compromising the core experience. However, will this statement be enough to convince the gaming community, which has long resisted microtransactions?
Ubisoft Says Microtransactions Make Gaming More Fun
Ubisoft’s statement in the report suggests that microtransactions build the player experience in a sustainable and respectful way over the long term. The company emphasizes that the fundamental principle in developing premium games is that players should be able to access the entire game without paying any extra. Microtransactions, on the other hand, are defined as purely cosmetic or progression-enhancing, completely optional elements.
However, this statement is highly controversial among many hardcore gamers. While microtransactions are widely accepted as a revenue model in free-to-play games, they are often met with criticism by players in games purchased at full price. The standardization of this practice, particularly by major studios like Ubisoft, has long been a subject of criticism.
The microtransaction model is not new to Ubisoft. This system was integrated into premium games with the 2017 release of Assassin’s Creed Origins and subsequently incorporated into nearly all major Ubisoft titles. While content such as exclusive skins, powerful weapons, and armor are paid, it is noted that these items can also be accessed through gameplay. However, many players argue that this system negatively impacts the game’s balance.
While Ubisoft made this statement directly to investors, how players will react to this statement remains a major question mark. Positioning microtransactions as a fun element, especially at a time when the company is trying to regain its credibility, could further fuel controversy rather than improve its image.
