It's time to talk about why "optional" microtransactions in games aren't really optional, and why they're especially gruesome in games we already paid for at retail.

The rise of "free to play" elements in games that are not free is going to become increasingly popular among major corporations, desperate as they are for "The Answer" to a splintering audience. While they are, on the surface, annoyances to be ignored, these fake freemium ideas change the way games are made and played, and that's not good for anyone.

Jim Sterling is The Escapist's reviews editor and produces Movie Defense Force and Jim & Yahtzee's Rhymedown Spectacular, alongside Jimquisition. He also hosts The Dismal Jesters podcast, and does videos on his stupid YouTube channel. He wears good quality ties, not great, but nice enough.