Greg Benage
Legend
I think many long-time RPG players dramatically underestimate the opportunities in the "digital space." As far as I can tell, we're still really in the first generation of VTTs and good implementation is already a major competitive advantage. For some reason, I've been looking around for other games we could play after our current 5e campaign, and VTT implementation, preferably on Roll20 where we already are, is a major consideration.
As far as microtransactions, I don't play a lot of video games, but when I do, I'm mystified at the things people spend money on. I play a bit of Warzone and I don't understand why anyone buys skins, for example...but they do. Conversely, I've had players commission character art to use in their little 2D character token on Roll20. I've had players buy custom miniatures for their characters for 40 years. Do I think there's a significant market for customizable digital "miniatures" in a 3D VTT? Hell yes, I do.
None of this suggests Wizards is going to do it well--their track record isn't good. But if they can execute, it's a space with transformative business opportunity for the company IMO.
As far as microtransactions, I don't play a lot of video games, but when I do, I'm mystified at the things people spend money on. I play a bit of Warzone and I don't understand why anyone buys skins, for example...but they do. Conversely, I've had players commission character art to use in their little 2D character token on Roll20. I've had players buy custom miniatures for their characters for 40 years. Do I think there's a significant market for customizable digital "miniatures" in a 3D VTT? Hell yes, I do.
None of this suggests Wizards is going to do it well--their track record isn't good. But if they can execute, it's a space with transformative business opportunity for the company IMO.