Summary:
Meta Credits launched for Horizon Worlds in US, UK, and Canada
Users can buy in-world digital goods with Meta Credits
Meta Credits are non-transferable and tied to individual accounts
Purchases require parent approval for users aged 10-12
Meta aims to build a sustainable virtual economy with this new currency
Meta has introduced a significant addition to Horizon Worlds with the quiet rollout of its premium digital currency, Meta Credits, available in the US, UK, and Canada. This new currency allows users to purchase in-world digital goods from creators, including avatar outfits and access keys to premium worlds.
Unlike Quest Cash, Meta Credits cannot be used for hardware or accessories; they are exclusively for purchases within Horizon Worlds. While this is a notable advancement, it does not mark the official launch of the Horizon Worlds economy. Since 2022, Meta has been experimenting with monetization strategies, allowing users to buy digital goods with local currency. However, the introduction of Meta Credits introduces the familiar challenge of obscuring the real-world money being spent.
Users can purchase packs of Meta Credits, with various bonus amounts available. For example, the lowest tier offers 300 Meta Credits for $3 without any bonus. Currently, Meta Credits are limited to users in the US, UK, and Canada, leaving other regions, such as Australia, New Zealand, and much of Europe, waiting for access.
Purchases involving Meta Credits require approval from parents or guardians for users aged 10-12, and the credits are non-transferable between accounts, tying them to individual users. This structure sets Horizon Worlds on a path towards establishing a sustainable virtual economy, although it remains to be seen if it can compete with established platforms like Roblox, Rec Room, or VRChat. As the holiday season approaches, we might even see Meta Credit gift cards appearing in stores, expanding their use even further.
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