THE EVOLUTION OF DIGITAL GAME ECONOMICS IN THE CONTEXT OF MICROTRANSACTIONS AND CONSUMER BEHAVIOUR

Abstract

The digital game industry has entered an important transformation phase since the 20^th century. The technological transformations that have taken place in recent years have brought the internet and games closer to the centre of our lives. Within this transformation and development phase, key structural breaks occur in the game industry. One of the most important points in these structural breaks is microtransactions. Through microtransactions, games become a continuous source of income for companies and provide a constant experience for users instead of a one-time gaming experience. In this study, the importance of microtransactions in the market structure and functioning of both the video and mobile game industry is analysed from the point of view of both producers and consumers, and it is aimed to reveal a literature review on the types, motivations, controversial points and consequences of microtransactions.

Keywords: Video Games, Mobile Games, Microtransactions, Consumer