In-Game Purchases Boost Success of Freemium Games

A new joint report from Comscore and Anzu reveals key insights into US gamers' habits, preferences, and spending trends. The study, "Comscore's 2024 State of Gaming Report," examines gaming behavior across various platforms and genres.

In-Game Purchases: A Popular Choice

Freemium Gaming's Rise to Prominence

The report highlights the remarkable success of the freemium model, with a staggering 82% of US gamers making in-game purchases in these titles last year. Freemium games, offering free access alongside optional in-app purchases, have become a dominant force, exemplified by popular titles like Genshin Impact and League of Legends.

This model's popularity, especially within mobile gaming, is rooted in its history. Maplestory, released in North America in 2005, is considered a pioneer of the freemium concept, introducing the idea of purchasing virtual goods with real money.

The continued success of freemium games has benefited developers and major platforms like Google, Apple, and Microsoft. Research from Corvinus University suggests that the freemium model's appeal stems from its blend of utility, self-expression, social interaction, and competitive elements. These factors encourage players to invest in enhancing their gameplay experience and accessing new content.

Comscore's Chief Commercial Officer, Steve Bagdasarian, emphasizes the report's significance in understanding the gaming market and its potential for brands. The findings underscore the cultural impact of gaming and the importance of gamer behavior for businesses targeting this engaged audience.

The rising cost of game development has also been cited as a factor influencing the use of in-game purchases. Katsuhiro Harada of Tekken, for example, explained that revenue from Tekken 8's in-game transactions directly contributes to the game's ongoing development budget.