Mar 26, 2012 - 10:43 am

Dota 2: Test Build Files hint at Possible Microtransactions

Valve’s upcoming real time action strategy fantasy title Dota 2 have a lot of players going through the game’s test build files. You have to love these intrepid gamers for their curiosity and thank them for their efforts in checking deep into the guts of the upcoming game.

What they found is quite interesting, to say the least. They have come across signs of unofficial features that point towards microtransactions. What is the evidence? There are some announcers, character skins and taunts, new items for heroes, and other digital goodies that may be bought with either in-game money or with real currency. The game also has new couriers you can buy such as animal pets that can ferry you to and from your home base) and there is also one more game consumable. These items are called “souls.” A “repentant” one will supposedly get you out of the “low priority punishment” line when you use this “soul.” It seems that this feature suggests some sort of “pay or be punished” regimen. Interesting concept. If players act like bullies or mess other players up, they might get punished and would need to pay to get out of the game’s penalty box or jail. Interesting incentive to act nice online.