

Apple provides a framework dubbed "in-app purchases" for initiating and processing transactions. Microtransactions are most commonly provided through a custom store interface placed inside the app for which the items are being sold.

There has been considerable discussion over microtransactions and their effects on children. The reasons why people, especially children, continue to pay for microtransactions are embedded in human psychology. Some developers ensure that only cosmetic items are available this way to keep gameplay fair and balanced. Some games allow players to purchase items that can be acquired through normal means, but some games include items that can only be obtained through microtransaction. Items and features available by microtransaction can range from cosmetic (such as decorative character attire) to functional (such as weapons and items). This method has also been called a form of underage gambling. Loot boxes result in high revenues because instead of a one-time purchase for the desired item, users may have to buy multiple boxes. Through purchasing a loot box, the player acquires a seemingly random assortment of items.

Loot boxes are another form of microtransactions. Also, presumably the game developer's marketing strategy is that in the long term, the revenue from a micro transaction system will outweigh the revenue from a one-time-purchase game. The objective with a free-to-play microtransaction model is to involve more players in the game by providing desirable items or features that players can purchase if they lack the skill or available time to earn these through regular game play. Another term, " pay-to-win", is sometimes used pejoratively to refer to games where buying items in-game can give a player a disproportionate advantage over other players, particularly if the items cannot be obtained through free means. While microtransactions are a staple of the mobile app market, they are also seen on PC software such as Valve's Steam digital distribution platform, as well as console gaming.įree-to-play games that include a microtransaction model are sometimes referred to as " freemium". Microtransactions are often used in free-to-play games to provide a revenue source for the developers. Micro-transactions, often abbreviated as mtx, are a business model where users can purchase virtual goods with micropayments.
