4 different currencies? 4?!! why do we need that many different currencies in game? Fortnite has one. 1 currency! Why does a skating game need 4?
Why Skating Games Use Multiple Currencies
It’s a question many players ask: why do some skating games insist on throwing multiple currencies at us? When you’re just trying to pull off a sick kickflip, navigating a complex in-game economy can feel like an unnecessary hurdle. We’ve all experienced the frustration of seeing different icons pop up after completing challenges, each representing a distinct form of in-game wealth. This isn’t just a quirk of game design; there are strategic reasons behind this multiplicity of currencies.
While a single, straightforward currency, like in Fortnite, offers simplicity, a more intricate system can actually enhance the player experience in specific ways. Let’s break down why developers opt for this approach and what it means for you as a player.
The Purpose Behind Multiple In-Game Currencies
The primary reason for implementing multiple currencies is to create a deeper, more engaging progression system and to cater to different player motivations. It’s not just about having more things to collect; it’s about how those collections tie into the game’s core loop and long-term appeal.
Driving Player Engagement and Retention
Different currencies can be tied to specific activities. For instance, one might be earned through completing daily challenges, another through participating in live events, and a third through simply playing the game and leveling up. This variety encourages players to engage with a broader range of game modes and features, preventing burnout and keeping them invested over time.
Differentiating Rewards and Progression
When you have only one currency, it can be difficult to assign value to different types of achievements. With multiple currencies, developers can more effectively:
- Reward specific playstyles: A currency earned by mastering technical tricks might unlock cosmetic items, while one earned through aggressive play might unlock performance upgrades.
- Gate content strategically: Certain desirable items or upgrades can be locked behind currencies that require significant time investment or specific skill mastery, creating aspirational goals for players.
- Create a sense of unique accomplishment: Earning a rare currency feels more special than just accumulating more of the same old coins.
Monetization Strategies
It’s also important to acknowledge the role of monetization. Often, premium currencies are introduced that can be purchased with real money. These are usually designed to offer shortcuts or exclusive items, allowing players who wish to spend money to progress faster or acquire unique gear. The presence of free, earnable currencies ensures that free-to-play players still have a rewarding experience, while premium options cater to those willing to invest financially.
Common Types of Currencies in Skating Games
While the exact names and functions vary, most skating games with multiple currencies tend to fall into a few common categories:
- Standard/Soft Currency: This is your everyday coin. Earned abundantly through gameplay, it’s typically used for basic purchases like common clothing items, board customizations, or minor upgrades.
- Premium/Hard Currency: This is the currency often purchasable with real money. It’s used for exclusive cosmetic items, rare gear, or to speed up certain progression timers.
- Event/Limited-Time Currency: This currency is usually tied to seasonal events or special challenges. It’s earned by participating in event-specific activities and is used to purchase event-exclusive rewards before they disappear.
- Reputation/Skill Currency: Some games introduce a currency earned through demonstrating skill or achieving high ranks. This might unlock advanced tricks, unique skate parks, or high-tier cosmetic sets that signify mastery.
Navigating the Economy: Tips for Players
Understanding the different currencies is key to maximizing your enjoyment and progression. Here’s how to approach it:
- Prioritize your goals: What do you want to achieve? Are you looking for the coolest outfits, the best board performance, or to complete all the challenges? Focus on earning the currency that directly contributes to those goals.
- Understand the grind: Some currencies are harder to earn than others. Be realistic about the time investment required for certain rewards.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment: Try out different game modes and challenges to see which ones yield the currencies you need most effectively.
- Check the store regularly: Keep an eye on what each currency can buy, especially limited-time event currencies, before they expire.
While the idea of multiple currencies might seem daunting at first, it’s often a deliberate design choice aimed at providing a richer, more layered gaming experience. By understanding their purpose and how to acquire them, you can better navigate the in-game economy and truly enjoy everything your skating game has to offer.
For more insights into game economies and how they work, check out this IGN wiki on game design.
Understanding player psychology in gaming economies is also crucial. You can learn more about this topic from resources like Gamasutra’s article on game economies.
Conclusion
So, why do skating games use four different currencies? It’s a system designed to reward diverse playstyles, offer varied progression paths, and keep players engaged long-term. Each currency serves a purpose, from the basic coin you earn from every trick to the exclusive tokens from limited-time events. While it might seem complex initially, understanding these systems unlocks a deeper, more rewarding gameplay experience.