Virtual Currencies in Online Gaming

Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)

• I. Introduction
• II. Framework
  • 1. Theoretical framework
    • 1.1 Approach
    • 1.2 Specifics of virtual currency in online games
    • 1.3 Processes in virtual currency
    • 1.4 Consequences and effects
  • 2. Basic terms and definitions
    • 2.1 Virtual currency
    • 2.2 Online gaming
    • 2.3 Governmental and legal framework
  • 3. Methodology
    • 3.1 Selection of case studies
    • 3.2 Business modeling matrix
    • 3.3 Platform types
    • 3.4 Literature
• III. Case Studies
  • 1. World of Warcraft
    • 1.1 Overview
    • 1.2 Business model
      • 1.2.1 Value network parameters
      • 1.2.2 Functional architecture parameters
      • 1.2.3 Financial model parameters
      • 1.2.4 Value proposition parameters
    • 1.3 Platform type
  • 2. Pocket Change
    • 2.1 Overview
    • 2.2 Business model
      • 2.2.1 Value network parameters
      • 2.2.2 Functional architecture parameters
      • 2.2.3 Financial model parameters
      • 2.2.4 Value proposition parameters
    • 2.3 Platform
  • 3. Facebook Credits
    • 3.1 Overview
    • 3.2 Business model
      • 3.2.1 Value network parameters
      • 3.2.2 Functional architecture parameters
      • 3.2.3 Financial model parameters
      • 3.2.4 Value proposition parameters
    • 3.3 Platform type
  • 4. Game Coins
    • 4.1 Overview
    • 4.2 Business model
      • 4.2.1 Value network parameters
      • 4.2.2 Functional architecture parameters
      • 4.2.3 Financial model parameters
      • 4.2.4 Value proposition parameters
    • 4.3 Platform
• IV. Lessons from case studies
  • 1. Tabular overview
    • 1.1 Findings in a nutshell
  • 2. Opportunities of universal virtual currencies in online games
    • 2.1 Potentials of universal virtual currencies
      • 2.1.1 Rewards in the real world via applications
      • 2.1.2 Premium use with possible extensions
    • 2.2 Chances of universal virtual currencies in online games
  • 3. Risks for universal virtual currencies in online games
    • 3.1 Third party operations in twilight zones
    • 3.2 Lacking differentiation

Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)

This master thesis explores the field of virtual currencies in online gaming. It examines the feasibility of establishing a universal virtual currency within this environment. The thesis aims to demonstrate the functionality of virtual currencies in their respective domains, examining the associated mechanisms and identifying key stakeholders. It provides a comprehensive overview of the subject, including clarification of terminology related to virtual currencies in online gaming, and explores relevant processes, consequences, and legal aspects. The core of the thesis consists of an analysis of four case studies representing various virtual currencies across different online gaming areas, including a massively multiplayer online role-playing game, a mobile gaming application, a social network with a gaming section, and a virtual marketplace featuring browser games. By employing a business modeling matrix and a platform typology, the cases are analyzed based on parameters such as functional and financial architecture. The results, presented in a comparative overview, help to identify potential opportunities, advantages, and risks associated with virtual currencies in online gaming.

• Virtual currencies in online gaming
• Feasibility of a universal virtual currency
• Functionality of virtual currencies in different gaming domains
• Analysis of case studies using a business modeling matrix and platform typology
• Potential opportunities, advantages, and risks associated with virtual currencies in online gaming

Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)

The introduction provides a comprehensive overview of the thesis' scope, which stems from the rapid growth of virtual currency exchange and the increasing popularity of online gaming. It emphasizes the significance of virtual currencies in online gaming, referencing the work of Edward Castronova and highlighting the evolving role and importance of these currencies.

Chapter II, "Framework," lays the foundation for the thesis, establishing the theoretical framework, defining key terms and concepts related to virtual currencies and online gaming, and outlining the methodology employed for the case studies. It explores the specific characteristics of virtual currencies in online games, delves into the processes involved, and analyzes the consequences and effects of their utilization. This chapter also provides insights into the legal and regulatory framework surrounding virtual currencies in online gaming.

Chapter III, "Case Studies," delves into the analysis of four different virtual currencies across various online gaming sectors. This chapter examines the business models of each virtual currency, focusing on their value network, functional architecture, financial model, and value proposition. Additionally, it analyzes each case study's platform type, shedding light on the underlying technological infrastructure and its impact on the virtual currency's implementation.

Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)

This research focuses on virtual currencies, online gaming, business modeling, and platform type. The study explores the potential for a universal virtual currency in online gaming, analyzing the functional and financial architecture of various virtual currencies within different gaming contexts. The research examines the impact of legal frameworks, user behavior, and technological infrastructure on the development and adoption of virtual currencies in online gaming.