Blizzard has confirmed plans for an in-game store in its long-standing MMORPG World of Warcraft. Although the developer admits they are still "pretty early in the exploration process," community manager Bashiok took to the game's forums to provide some insight as to what players can expect to see available in there as well as the rationale behind the store.
"For players who are already interested in the in-game items we offer, such as Pet Store pets and mounts, the benefits of an in-game store are pretty clear," Bashiok said. "We think everyone would appreciate the convenience of being able to make such purchases without having to leave the game, and ultimately that’s our long-term goal for the system, though there’s quite a bit of work involved in retrofitting those existing items into the new system."
Blizzard will first be testing the in-game store with some new items in Asian regions only. Some items that will show up in the store include an experience buff to assist with leveling, as well as an alternate way to acquire Lesser Charms of Good Fortune.
"We’ve had a lot of requests from players in different regions for convenience-oriented items such as these, and as with other new ideas we’ve introduced as WoW has evolved—including Pet Store pets, mounts, and more—your feedback plays a hugely important part in determining what we add to the game," he said.
"Ultimately it’s still too early in the process to make any final determinations about our plans," Bashiok concluded, "but in the meantime, we hope you’ll check out the in-game store once it’s implemented on the PTR and let us know what you think."
World of Warcraft is currently free-to-play for characters under level 20. For a new player, odds are most of your friends are already higher levels. A way to catch up with them quicker might encourage lower level players to stick around.
