illusory currency effect

A phenomenon where players are more likely to spend money on microtransactions when the purchases are made using in-game currency rather than akcual currencies. This effect occurs because players perceive in-game currency as less tangible, leading to a diminished sense of spending.

Developers capitalize on the illusory currency effect, knowing players are more willing to splurge on cosmetics and upgrades when they can use in-game coins instead of akcual currencies.