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In an industry increasingly driven by the allure of in-game monetization, one indie gem is defying conventions and taking a stand for player satisfaction.Inkbound, a co-op roguelike game developed by Shiny Shoe, the studio behind the popular Monster Train, is making headlines for its decision to eliminate all forms of in-game monetization.
This bold move,scheduled for June 30, 2025, comes as a response to shifting industry trends and a desire to align with player sentiment. In a world where FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) is a prevalent concern, Inkbound is going against the grain.
Embracing Player Sentiment
Inkbound’s monetization journey began with the introduction of a battle pass and an in-game currency shop during its early access phase. These features were intended to support ongoing development while carefully avoiding any impact on gameplay. However, Shiny Shoe recognized a growing shift in the industry, and more importantly, in the sentiments of their player base. Players were increasingly wary of FOMO and the feeling that they had to spend to keep up.
For this reason, Shiny Shoe decided to remove in-game monetization entirely. Instead, they will transform content from the existing Leveling Pass into “supporter pack” DLCs, available on the Steam store. The rest of the cosmetic content will remain accessible through in-game progression.
Cosmetics Without the Costs
Inkbound’s cosmetic shop isn’t going anywhere; the only significant change is that the currency to purchase these cosmetics can only be earned through gameplay. The existing purchased currency will be converted into the new earnable currency, effectively refunding players double its value. For example, if you previously bought 1,000 Shinies, you’ll receive an additional 2,000 Vault Dust.
Players who own the Leveling Pass will automatically unlock all rewards, receive 1,000 Vault Dust, and will be on the same playing field as others. A new free track of rewards will provide cosmetics and Vault Dust for those leveling up, ensuring that there is no longer any FOMO associated with the game.
No Fear of Missing Out
Inkbound’s decision to shift its monetization strategy is a refreshing change in an industry where major AAA games rely heavily on battle passes and in-game cosmetics for revenue. Many of these games either require an initial purchase or operate under a free-to-play model with extensive in-game purchases.
Notably, Inkbound isn’t a free-to-play title, and it is currently priced at $19.99 on Steam. However, the developers have hinted at a potential “small increase” in the future. Shiny Shoe has made a conscious choice to prioritize player satisfaction over immediate financial gain, recognizing that player goodwill is a valuable long-term asset.
Player Satisfaction Speaks Volumes
The decision to remove in-game monetization from Inkbound appears to have resonated positively with the player base. Since its launch in May, the game has garnered 1,000 user reviews, with an impressive 86% of them being positive. This data underscores the fact that, when developers prioritize player sentiment, it can lead to a more engaged and content player base.
Conclusion
Inkbound’s journey to eliminate in-game monetization is a testament to Shiny Shoe’s commitment to player satisfaction and the changing dynamics of the gaming industry. In an era when FOMO and monetization strategies dominate headlines, Inkbound is choosing a different path. By removing monetization and ensuring that players have access to cosmetics without any hidden costs, Shiny Shoe is carving a unique niche in the gaming world. With a supportive player base and a bold decision to put players first, Inkbound’s future is indeed looking brighter than ever.
