Stakeholder 2
Game Companies and Developers
Game companies and developers are deeply tied to microtransactions because these systems have become one of the main ways they make money and support long-term game development. Microtransactions give companies a steady income, which helps them release updates, create new content, and keep games running for years. Because of this, developers often design games with long-term engagement in mind, encouraging players to return daily, participate in events, or buy items that make the game feel more rewarding. At the same time, companies face pressure to stay competitive in an industry where almost every major game uses some form of monetization. This makes microtransactions difficult to avoid, even when developers know that certain designs might frustrate players or encourage unhealthy habits. Some companies try to balance fairness with profit by offering mostly cosmetic items, while others rely on chance-based rewards that bring in more revenue but also create more controversy. Developers must also consider regulations and public opinion, since backlash from players or governments can harm a company’s reputation. Overall, game companies and developers are caught between making money, keeping players satisfied, and avoiding harm, which makes them a key part of the discussion around microtransactions and gambling-like behavior.