NCSoft Goes Against the Grain with Throne and Liberty Monetization
In a refreshing turn of events, NCSoft has announced a different approach for the monetization of its upcoming MMORPG, Throne and Liberty (TL). According to a Korean news report, the company will steer clear of probability items like loot boxes and gacha systems. Instead, the focus will be on subscription-based Battle Passes.
The Downside of Probability Items
Loot boxes and similar systems have been a popular choice for monetizing games, offering players the chance to win rare items through luck. However, this model has come under scrutiny, both from regulators and players, for its exploitative nature. NCSoft appears to be aware that fan frustration over random items can hurt the long-term success of a game.
Battle Pass: A Win-Win Situation?
By adopting a Battle Pass monetization system, Throne and Liberty aims to offer a more transparent and fair system for players. Subscribers to the Battle Pass will receive specific items as they achieve certain milestones within the game. Unlike loot boxes, players will know exactly what they are getting, a feature that seems to be more appealing to a majority of players.
Focusing on the Western Market
During the last Closed Beta Testing (CBT) phase of Throne and Liberty, all draw items were excluded, giving players a first look at the Battle Pass, which primarily offers cosmetic rewards with little effect on gameplay. This move seems geared towards capturing the Western audience, who generally view probability items unfavorably.
What Does The Industry Think?
An industry official commented on NCSoft's approach, stating that although game companies have made substantial profits through probability items in the past, the model has led to competition, item-related crimes, and even calls for legislation. A shift towards Battle Pass systems seems to be a more sustainable and fair option for the industry as a whole.
What's Next?
The Battle Pass system was well-received during the CBT, and all indicators suggest that NCSoft may make this a permanent feature for Throne and Liberty. However, this also means that the company needs to secure a large subscriber base to offset the loss of potential earnings from probability items. It's a gamble, but one NCSoft seems willing to take, especially given the game's upcoming Korean launch in December and global prospects.
For more updates on Throne and Liberty, don't miss the Launching Showcase on November 2nd at 11 o'clock, where NCSoft is set to reveal all details about the game. For more on the upcoming Korea launch and November showcase, check out our previous article here.
Final Thoughts
With Throne and Liberty, NCSoft seems to be setting a precedent by choosing fairness and transparency over potentially exploitative monetization models. It remains to be seen how this strategy will play out, but it’s an approach that many in the gaming community have long hoped for.
