MS "may" charge for Avatar accessories
via Computer and Video Games
As if Xbox 360 Avatars weren't controversial enough, Microsoft's games corporate VP John Schappert says micro-transactions "may be in the future" for the Xbox Mii-alikes.
The avatars, which will be released alongside the new Xbox 360 dashboard at the end of the year, can be used as an animated, cartoon-y replacement for today's Gamerpics - but you don't have to use them if you don't want to.
"That may be in the future," Schappert told Venturebeat, when asked if Microsoft would charge for extra customisation and accessories for the 360 Avatars.
"In the near term, we want to launch these with great customization and a great library of accessories this fall. I think there is a lot more we can do with them. You will see us continue to add experiences that make use of the avatar.
"Our goal is not to create a sterile environment where you move furniture around. It's about how can we make our gaming experiences better," he said.
Developers such as Bethesda have already expressed interest in including unlockable Avatar accessories with their games.
