When the gaming community learned Dragon’s Dogma 2 would feature microtransactions, people were a bit taken aback. After all, it’s a full-price AAA title; why would one need to pay even more after paying the purchase fee?
Microtransactions have been a topic of very heated conversation in the gaming community, and one thing we need to understand is that they are here to stay. So, here are five games that implement them well and aren’t just greedy cash grabs.
5. For Honor
Ubisoft may be in the news for the wrong reasons a lot, but it should be given flowers when deserved. One such achievement is For Honor, the online dueling simulator that became a hot trend for a while. Taking on the role of some iconic warriors throughout the ages, players could face off in a unique multiplayer experience that few have managed to recreate.
As with all good games with microtransactions, it’s not a direct pay-to-win model. Players will be paying for mainly cosmetic changes such as armor, emotes, and executions, many of which can be unlocked through gameplay. There are some packs that add more warriors, but the base game has a robust selection too.
4. Dragon’s Dogma 2
We can’t talk about good games with microtransactions without having Dragon’s Dogma 2 on the list. The game is a sequel to Capcom’s cult favorite from 2012. The first game introduced a lot of mechanics, that are still highly regarded in the gaming community. Dragon’s Dogma 2 improves on all of those mechanics.
It’s got a vast open world that is four times larger than its predecessor, significantly improved visuals, and more intuitive combat mechanics. There are also new races to choose from during character selections, and the pawn system is back with some new features that will be a treat to those who enjoyed it in the first game.
3. Deep Rock Galactic
Have you ever wanted to play as an intergalactic dwarf, visiting unknown planets to mine for special materials while defending yourself against swarms of enemies? Well, look no further than Deep Rock Galactic. Team up with friends or randoms, or go solo if you feel brave enough, and complete all objectives while trying to stay alive.
Again, the microtransactions do not hamper or hinder the player in any way. While you can buy better armor and weapons, you can also unlock many of them through gameplay. For those who aren’t fans of the first-person perspective, you can check out the Vampire Survivor-esque Deep Rock Galactic: Survivors.
2. Grand Theft Auto Online
The fact that a game from 2013 has an online community that is not only existing but also thriving is nothing short of impressive. Grand Theft Auto Online allows you to live out your dream life in Los Santos and explore the world set up by Rockstar with your friends.
Now, there are a lot of microtransactions in this game, but that doesn’t mean you need them to have fun. There’s a lot of content you can enjoy without paying an extra cent. But if you do have some spare cash lying around, you can enjoy one of the many expansions Rockstar has released for the game. We got the Cluckin’ Bell Farm Raid on March 7 this year, showing Rockstar is still supporting this title even with the imminent launch of Grand Theft Auto 6.
1. Warframe
If you’re someone who is confused between blades and guns, Warframe will scratch both itches and even throw other weapons into the mix. Another 2013 release from Digital Extremes, Nitro Games, and Panic Button Games, Warframe enables you to play as a futuristic ninja through its live-service model. The game features dynamic missions, multiplayer elements, and a range of suits that can be crafted and upgraded.
Much of the transactions in this game are for the suits, but given that most can be unlocked by farming and grinding, they aren’t necessary. The other purchases are purely cosmetic and don’t affect gameplay at all.
