Designing a sustainable F2P game economy with real-world value
I've been developing a revenue model for a next-generation free-to-play (F2P) game that enables skill-based real-world value generation without compromising player equity or legal integrity.
The Problem:
Traditional F2P models thrive on accessibility, but once in-game items begin to have realisable real-world value, games often struggle with pay-to-win mechanics, inflation, and the absence of meaningful labour markets. Attempts at “play-to-earn” models using crypto tokens have largely failed due to volatility, poor game design, and regulatory concerns. Games such as CS:GO, Diablo IV, and Axie Infinity expose the weaknesses of black-market trading, economic imbalance, and non-skill-based earning systems.
My Proposal:
I propose a closed-loop, player-driven economy where 99% of items are crafted or earned by players. Demand is partially modulated by AI-driven NPCs acting as consumers, mimicking real-world markets through scalable, narrative-responsive behaviour whilst still maintaining full player agency. High-skill players can join player-owned companies and earn real-world rewards through tournaments, similar to eSports or traditional sports sponsorship models.
This eliminates the need for exploitative cash shops or gambling mechanics while allowing players to realise real-world value for their time and financial investment in-game. Crucially, it enables developers to capture transaction fees that would otherwise go to black-market sites, offering the convenience and safety of in-game transactions.
This model aims to drive higher overall volume (i.e., Daily Active Users) even if it results in lower Average Revenue Per User. However, by focusing on growing and owning the game’s digital asset market, sustainable long-term revenue can be achieved through control of the in-game marketplace where these assets are traded.
Key Features:
Hybrid monetisation: The studio only sells in-game currency (and possibly cosmetics). All gear is earned through gameplay.
Land grants: Every player starts with non-tradeable land, ensuring fair onboarding and economic accessibility.
Companies & labour market: Players create businesses, hire others, and run full supply chains—from factory to tournament.
Retention-driven gameplay: Multiple game modes requiring different skill sets promote long-term engagement and reduce burnout.
By emulating real-world economic theory and applying strong game design principles, this model balances fairness, monetisation, and player agency. It elevates traditional F2P structures while avoiding the common pitfalls of "crypto-first" designs.