By Guest Blogger Steven Dropkin 

In my opinion, gaming has changed over years, and not always for the better.

It used to be when you bought a game, there weren’t any extras — no additional content at all. If you died, you had to start over. There was never any hand holding. There was no objective mark to tell you what to do next, for that matter.  

But times have changed, with microtransactions playing a part in the transformation.

However, I believe that microtransactions are ruining games.

Now, what are microtransactions exactly? Basically, you can buy certain perks, such as better ammunition, like a gun or armor, or even worse, you can buy a level up if you don’t have the patience to grind and actually play the game! I mean, what a novelty, right? It’s like you cheat on your test while looking over someone’s shoulder to get all the answers, sans the time consuming studying effort. 

Now, here are some examples of the most grotesque examples of microtransactions.

Evolve is a game that highlights this nightmare. But, of course, you have to pay $60 for it. Furthermore, if want every character, monter, and skin, you have to dole out $130 for it. That’s unbelievable. 

Another example is Metal Gear Solid V. MGS V has an online component in which you can invade each others’ base. You can use in game money or you can use real money to purchase better gear for your base. You can also buy security for your base. If you get attacked and you lose something, it gets replaced with the same thing.

So, basically, there’s isn’t any risk because you’re covered by this ridiculous perk. As long as you have the money, you can do whatever you want. Hey, just like in the real world. 

Now, what is Downloadable Content (DLC)? Basically, it’s extra story mode. Like, for example, in Witcher 3, there are two expansions with 40 hours of gameplay. That adds more longevity to the game and makes you want to come back, or it may give you more maps. 

In this case, I think forking over the extra money for the additional content is worth it.

Therefore, there are pros and cons to DLC content as a whole. It’s just up to you to decide whether or not it’s worth your hard-earned scratch. 

As for me, I’m not completely sold on the concept.