14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft always had a keen eye for business. For instance, the introduction of microtransactions for Xbox Live practically heralded the birth of the XBL Marketplace, a service that's becoming increasingly productive. Publishers took the scoop and mainly focus on cosmetic changes, with major gameplay altering content being avoided, yet this is subject to change. We've seen Oblivion's horse armor, Kameo's model packs and now Sega comes up with weapons and accessories for Chromehounds. As usual, the problem lies with the quality versus price ratio, as some would argue that another $12.5 in Microsoft points is not worth for a game that already got them $59.99.
Developer from Software recently released a free teaser in terms of addons for Chromehounds mechs. This week they also released ten new items available for download over Xbox Live, a purchase of 100 Marketplace points each ($1.25). There are five new weapons to unlock, along with parts like spacers, generators and a color pattern.
Suddenly a different look is not enough, as official Chromehounds forum users point out that some parts represent improvements to the already existing game content. It was never intended as an advantage to players who purchase parts from the Marketplace, but one can't dish out the potential to break Chromehounds' online experience. This kind of micro transactions walk the fine line between the right and wrong of Xbox Live's business model as fans generally agree content packs are light on features and heavy on price. It would be a shame to see developers launch unfinished games on the market and cover the gaps with XBL payed-for patches that presumably add new content.