China Bans RMT!
As of today, the Chinese government has made a bold move that is sure to please MMO players around the world.
“The virtual currency, which is converted into real money at a certain exchange rate, will only be allowed to trade in virtual goods and services provided by its issuer, not real goods and services,”
This means RMT (real money trade) companies that are operating from within China will no longer be in service. This is great news for all FFXI players, well the ones who refuse to buy Gil anyway.
The Chinese government estimates that trade in virtual currency exceeded several billion yuan last year, a figure that it claims has been growing at a rate of 20% annually. One billion yuan is currently equal to about $146 million.
With China’s infrastructure, they really wont be able to enforce this, however it is a big step never the less. Eventually we should see a difference in the economy as well as online gameplay. No more being out claimed by a rank 1 for an item that you actually need. No more annoying /tells from characters with random names advertising “fast and safe delivery”. Soon players should see the economy start to rebuild itself, AH prices should slowly start to decrease.
RMT has been an issue for many years through out the MMO community, hurting not just the economy but the ability for players to enjoy a lot of the content in the game. SE responded by banning accounts, adding Rare/Ex versions of certain highly desirable pieces of equipment and introducing a new system of fishing to help fight botters. In late 2006 the Special Task Force was created in an attempt to stop the growing issue for good. Though SE’s attempts have been greatly noticed by it’s players, the problem was not resolved.
Now that the Chinese Government has finaly stepped in, it should be interesting to see how it will effect the MMO community, especialy FFXI.
Check out Informationweek for more information.
Vana'House 