Jan 30
9200349
Online game property sales studied by the swots.
This interesting piece has been cited on Insolvent Republic of Blogistan and Libertarian Samizdata.
Some might find it surprising to hear that there are people making money and by selling high level characters for online games. I gather the going rate is $500 or more for a high-level character for Diablo II. The characters and magic items are being sold on ebay and other online auction houses. Virtual estate agents have been going almost since the beginning of MMORPGSs..
A few years ago I played a game called Clan Lord (think 80s graphics). During beta-testing there was already a market for high level characters, despite the constant threat of a reset. I was approached on numerous occasions by lower level characters wishing to buy my character.
For those wishing to see proof of this market, follow the links below.
74th level Unarmed, Asheron’s Call character.
Hardcore High Level Diablo chracters.
Guide to making (real) money on Everquest.
60th level Monk for Everquest.
50th level Paladin for Everquest currently at $1500 (reserve not met).
This is a fascinating endeavor but one does worry about the people who are spending all this money for virtual property. The (anarcho?) capitalist in me loves this to death. I just wonder how long it will take before some do-gooder in the EU gets their knickers in a twist over this.
