The online gaming evolution has grown by leaps and bounds with the help of popular social media sites such as Facebook, My Space and Twitter. Games like Farmville and Mafia Wars have found extraordinary success through these venues. And it’s not just games. The SoMe sites themselves are getting in on the virtual currency action.
Will Virtual Currencies soon join the dollar and euro?
Virtual currency is not a new concept. It’s like purchasing tokens, Barnyard Bills (Farmerama) or WOW Gold (World of Warcraft). But does this indicate that currency is finally moving the way of Star Trek? Will actual bills and jingling change soon be obsolete? For many gamers, it already is.
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The Ease of the Transaction
With the proliferation of virtual currencies, it is actually becoming much easier to get users to part with his or her money. By using
PayPal, you don’t even need to leave your seat to fetch a credit card, you can just continue on with your game (which is now further enhanced by the purchase you have just made).
With the evolution of smartphones, the spending continues, though now you will see the charges appear on your monthly bill. Since a credit card is not actually being entered, it’s easy for users to make a purchase for credits or virtual goods without connecting it to real cash. Once the user is comfortable with this type of purchase, it becomes even easier for the companies to turn you into their cash cow.
Remember, the goods may be virtual, but the money you are spending is REAL. Think before you buy.
