this post was submitted on 04 Aug 2023
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They're entirely cosmetic in Valve games as far as I'm aware
The argument of cosmetic only microtransactions is also a bit of a weak one because it's the sort of content that would usually just be in the base game, unlockable via gameplay or tied to cheat codes. At least this used to be the case.
Cosmetic only is still better than other types but it's still a case of the lesser of two evils.
Yeah, the only reason anybody says that is because we're so desensitized by pay-to-win mechanics and games being released half finished with day 1 dlc to fill the gaps, so we say "at least it's better than that"
Remember horse armor? I bet there's plenty of video games out now with cosmetic horse armor for sale.
We game for what we game for. Some people game for the cosmetics. They are selling what consumers buy. I'm not saying it's right. But if they keep buying why wouldn't they sell it?
What's wrong with it? Literally every single gameplay-related item in both Dota and CSGO are free. 100%, no strings attached. You can experience the entire game and what it has to offer without spending a dime. At some point you have to charge for something. These companies aren't making these game out of charity, they are in fact businesses. You can criticize the methods they use to push them (lootboxes, BP, etc) but I don't see a problem with the concept.
Cosmetic-only microtransactions in Free to Play games are absolutely fine, and should be encouraged. Those games wouldn’t exist without them.
In paid games it’s a different matter though, sure.
I like the way Grinding Gear does it with POE, a FTP game supported by cosmetic-only micro transactions. The stash tabs are the closest thing to "pay to win".
Yeah, I like Valve but fuck those loot boxes, their tolerance of gambling, and screw that bs excuse of "it's only cosmetic" because we know it's not and it preys on the same insecurities and uses the same psychological tools to maximize profits using addiction.