The Economics of Online Gaming

<b><i>The Economics of Online Gaming</i> covers basic economic concepts, unique economic issues, and general economic themes.</b> This book is made from the connections that the author saw when he compared his experience inside a video game with what he learned through a formal study of economic theory.<p></p> <p>Set in the Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game (MMORPG) of Eternal Lands, it follows the true story of Mr. Mind, a gamer who builds a business inside the game world that he calls RICH. This business grows from a small start-up to an unregulated natural monopoly that abuses its market power by intentionally losing money to drive competitors out of business.</p><p>RICH becomes so influential that it breaks the market process with a unique case of regulatory capture. Through this story, the book demonstrates how economic thinking is absorbed by experimenting inside an online video game.</p><p><i>The Economics of Online Gaming</i> covers basic economic concepts, unique economic issues, and general economic themes. Each of these topics begins with the context of a story and continues with an explanation of the economic theory behind it, finishing with a relevant real-world connection. It supports economic theory in an emotional way that cannot be shared through math or charts or graphs.</p><p>Appendix B provides a comprehensive outline of ideas for teaching and discussion in each chapter.</p>