GamersGate Launches Microtransactions Platform

Download portal GamersGate launched Microsuite, its new platform enabling developers to add microtransactions to their video games. With Microsuite, studios can insert opportunities for microtransactions into a game's lobby or in the title's actual gameplay. GamersGate CEO Theodore Bergquist says the company has invested heavily in its tools for publishers, enabling them to sell virtual goods, enhancements, add-ons, and other digital content. Though several other companies such as PlaySpan and Live Gamer offer similar virtual goods transaction services, GamersGate hopes to stand out by keeping transaction fees low, providing a variety of payment systems (including PayPal), and allowing gamers to use their virtual currency on all GamersGate-supported titles, not just one title or the titles from one publisher. Founded in 2004 and based in Stockholm, Sweden, GamersGate has over 800 PC games, such as Fallout 3 and Tomb Raider Underworld, available for digital distribution. The company is self-funded and currently employs 10 people. Bergquist says that GamersGate is already talking to publishers about using the platform, and titles with Microsuite integrated are expected to roll out in the first quarter of 2009.