Shadow of War Desolation of Mordor Update Removes Micro-Transactions

Middle-earth: Shadow of War for PS4, Xbox One, and PC will no longer allow for micro-transactions in-game. While publisher Warner Bros. announced this earlier, it will finally take place today with the Desolation of Mordor update that brings with it story-based downloadable content (DLC) in addition to removing the ability to purchase gold from the in-game marketplace using real cash. You can still spend gold and earn it through challenges until July 17 when the entire Shadow of War marketplace is removed. The reason cited for the removal of micro-transactions has to do with the game's Nemesis System which allowed you to craft cool, emergent experiences when interacting with Shadow of War's orcs. Prior to the removal of micro-transactions, orcs could be purchased for real cash.

"The core promise of the Nemesis System is the ability to build relationships with your personal allies and enemies in a dynamic open world. While purchasing orcs in the market is more immediate and provides additional player options, we have come to realise that providing this choice risked undermining the heart of our game, the Nemesis System. It allows you to miss out on the awesome player stories you would have otherwise created, and it compromises those same stories even if you don’t buy anything. Simply being aware that they are available for purchase reduces the immersion in the world and takes away from the challenge of building your personal army and your fortresses," a post on the official Shadow of War community site reads.

"Any remaining gold will be converted to gold loot chests beginning on July 17. Each 150 in gold will be converted to one gold loot chest, with any balance under 150 gold being converted to a single gold loot chest. The contents of gold loot chests will remain unchanged. Gold vouchers redeemed on or after July 17, when the market closes, will be converted into gold loot chests. Gold vouchers redeemed before July 17 can be used normally."

This move comes on the heels of Star Wars Battlefront 2 removing all pay-to-win in-game purchases, pivoting to allowing for cosmetic purchases only. No surprise given that micro-transactions have come under scrutiny and regulation the world over.

If you're a fan of video games, check out Transition, Gadgets 360's gaming podcast. You can listen to it via Apple Podcasts or RSS, or just listen to this week's episode by hitting the play button below.