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When it comes to crowdfunding perks and rewards, online games – particularly MMORPG’s – have it great. Crowdfunding for online games offers a unique advantage for project creators. Since most items are virtual, they have no manufacturing or delivery cost. After the item is designed, everything can usually be replicated with the click of a button (no marginal cost). Plus, MMORPG’s are fundamentally competitive and hardcore users look for every advantage possible.

This makes the idea of “getting in early” even more attractive. You want a unique and powerful weapon, ability, or skill that won’t be available to the general game population upon release? Well, consider backing a crowdfunding campaign very early in the development process. Below are some examples of online games and their digital reward structure:

Camelot Unchained

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This is the successor to Dark Age of Camelot, the online RvR-based MMORPG that was really popular in the early 2000’s. The campaign reached its $2 million funding goal on Kickstarter back in May of 2013. As of January 2014, more than 14,000 backers have contributed a total of $2.4 million. Some of the rewards obviously include free copies of the game, and posters. Some of the unique digital rewards include:

  • additional character slots
  • alpha / beta access
  • in-game trophies and dyes
  • special weapons and armor
  • unique character honors and titles, such as “bug slayer”
  • in-game housing in prime locations or larger sizes. Or your own private island or inn.

These crowdfunding reward tiers range from $5 to $10,000, but if you want your own super epic weapon or private island, then you have to pay up.

Star Citizen

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Star citizen is also a successor to an old classic – in this case, Wing Commander, the cherished space adventure game. They have raised a whopping $37 million as of January 2014 ($2 million on Kickstarter and the rest doing it themselves via their own website). Basic perks include access to alpha and beta testing and copies of the game. The following are examples of the unique digital perks offered:

  • “galactic credits”
  • ready-to-fly spaceships, some with customizations
  • blueprints for extra spaceships
  • special weapons
  • access to restricted areas
  • “1 Million Mile High Club” – your own private club in the game

Similar to Camelot Unchained, the tiers for Star Citizen range from $5 to $10,000. It may be a lot, but if you can afford it, you can secure your own space vehicles and super prime real estate.

The digital nature of MMORPGs makes them really flexible in terms of perks. A truly unique item is a great way to reward loyal backers with something that can make them stand out from the rest of the game population. We think it’s pretty damn neat – developers can get really creative (but within reason – they don’t want to skew the power balance). Check out the links below to view their crowdfunding pages and information about their reward setup. And check back soon for more articles on other MMORPG’s and their unique digital rewards.

Camelot Unchained: Crowdfunding Perks
Star Citizen: Crowdfunding Perks