Virtually any true gamer has played at least one, if not several, free-to-play online games. For the most part these are MMORPGs (massive multiplayer online role-playing game.) Some are good, some are bad, and many are just awful. In the past you had to buy games if you wanted top quality. However, this is all beginning to change. Many gaming publishers have realized free to play games have a ton of profit potential, and have figured out how to achieve it.
Why Free-to-Play is Successful
No obligations – When it comes to a free to play game. If you dislike the game, you can simply uninstall it and not play it. With other games there is an up front fee which may force people into feeling like they have to play, because if they don’t it’s money wasted. Free to play, leads to more people that are willing to try your product. Everyone can play – Since there is no fee, people can play with all of their friends or family. This makes for a more fun experience overall. No one likes playing a game by themselves just because their friends can’t afford to play with them. This also leads to a larger player base and more potential consumers. Hardcore fans – If people like the game enough, there is potential for hardcore fans to put more money into your game than the average flat price of a pay to play game. There is no limitations on how much money publishers can make. Higher Quality – An extremely fun game with high quality is likely to earn more money, under the free-to play business model. People can play the game without being forced to buy anything, and they won’t if they find the game unworthy, and of low quality. This is great because it forces companies to give it their best if they want to be successful, and it constantly pushes the boundaries of gaming.