Discussion: RCE Games

[sIg3b]

Disclaimer: This is NOT a project I want to sell to Slytherine.

I am interested in a theoretical discussion, if an RCE game is viable at all.

RCE means Real Currency Economy. So you do not just pay for in-game items with real money, but can also trade with other players, and, most importantly, withdraw your gains.

RCE games are very rare. I am of course not talking about online casinos. So to clarify: What this is about is a *skill-based* game that is not a Ponzi or some other scam.

I know of only one game that pretends to be something of that kind, which is Entropia Universe, and I do not recommend that one. I think it´s a Ponzi or at least very close. So this is not an advertisement for Entropia Universe, either, much the opposite.

Interested in the thoughts of economists, programmers, game developers and everybody else.

[sIg3b]

Ok, let´s get the ball rolling:

I will try an analysis from the viewpoint of the operator and from the viewpoint of the player. These viewpoints are not necessarily antagonistic, assuming the whole thing is not a scam.

If I were the operator, I would want to

1. make a profit;
2. not go to jail;
3. have an excellent reputation;
4. have an attractive product that sells well.

(Feel free to add more points if I forgot any.)

When playing a cash game, what would I want?

1. Not to be cheated, either by the operator or other players.

a) So no hidden costs; operator´s share should be obvious and transparent.
b) High security; make sure not to be hacked.

2. 90-95% skill.

a) The game should be very complicated and difficult to make sure there is no such thing as accidental success.
b) Little or no luck factor.
c) Little or no FoW.
d) All rules are known; absolutely no vagueness about the game systems.
e) Realism is NOT an issue; if the game is to be skll-based, predictability is more important than realism.

3. Interesting theme and attractive gameplay.

The game should be worthwhile even if not played for cash.