The hidden high costs of ‘free-to-play’ videogames show players need better protection, scientists say
cross-posted from: https://piefed.world/c/scientificarticles/p/1348696/the-hidden-high-costs-of-free-to-play-videogames-show-players-need-better-protection-sci
https://www.frontiersin.org/news/2026/08/21/hidden-high-costs-free-to-play-videogames-players-need-better-protection-frontiers-public-healthOpen linkView original on piefed.world
5 replies
They're not exactly hidden these days, but I agree. And they also happen in paid games. Guessing a separate pegi category for all games that offer in game spending, regardless if its outright gambling, season passes or dlc, and for both free and paid games. They should not be allowed to tug at your strings, at least in-game.
It's being worked on. PEGI already announced new rules and rating. As usual the US isn't on board though.
https://attractmo.de/gaming-business/us-game-ratings-to-remain-unchanged-despite-european-overhaul
Didn’t read the article but amen lol $40,000 boat in where winds meet?!?!? Wtf
Obviously you don’t need it but why does it even exist lol
That would be called a price anchor and it's sole purpose is to exploit the decoy effect.
In short: by offering this obviously overpriced bullshit boat, they create the illusion of value in boats in general. Then the $20 boat seems like a reasonable "investment". Common dark pattern.
And also, “lol, what if someone bought it.” - some executive