Most gamers have the experience of making in-game purchases, like buying game currencies, weapons, item packs and unlock special characters etc. We all need entertainment from time to time, and just as we would spend to go to the movies, dine at restaurants, travel and go shopping. The same goes for gaming too.
Gaming can help relieve stress while keeping us entertained. However, in-game purchases are not unlike the other things we purchase. Without proper control over our impulses, we can easily become addicted. Game spending can quickly add up to the point where we can no longer afford. As such, it is very important for gamers to stay clear-headed and think twice before reaching into your (virtual) wallet!
Helpful tips to control your urge to make in-game purchases:
- Limit your gaming time and in-game spending: set an upper limit for your monthly in-game purchases. Use the IFEC Money Tracker mobile app (IOS | Android) to log how much is spent for such purchases. Adhere strictly to the pre-set spending limit.
- The golden rule: do not borrow to make in-game purchases – not even with a credit card!
- Do not connect your credit card to your game account. Use a prepaid card instead of a credit card to settle payments for in-game purchases to avoid impulse purchases.
- Think twice before entering a “lottery”: lucky draws within games may be prescribed a fixed probability. In other words, even if you make multiple in-game purchases, your chances of winning may only increase marginally.
- Watch your data usage: some mobile games require a network connection to identify your location, resulting in increased data usage and additional costs.
- Keep transaction records: when you make in-game purchases, remember to keep track of important information such as proof of transactions. This is something you can use to protect yourself when no upgrades / props are given after payment.
On top of in-game purchases, professional hardware such as consoles, keyboards, computer mice and headphones can also be quite costly. It’s important that we exercise self-discipline. To truly enjoy the fun of gaming, we must know when to stop before going too far. If you find yourself losing control over in-game purchases or gaming hardware, or even notice signs of addiction, do seek help from your family, friends or a social worker.
