Crossy Road is a popular mobile game developed by Hipster Whale, released in 2014 for Android and iOS devices. The game has gained widespread attention for its simple yet addictive gameplay mechanics, but what sets it apart from other endless runner games is the incorporation of gambling themes.
Overview and Definition
At Crossy Road its core, Crossy Road is an endless runner game where players control a character as they navigate through various environments, avoiding obstacles while trying to reach their goal. The game’s primary objective is not unlike that of other endless runners – collect points by crossing roads without getting hit or caught. However, the inclusion of in-game purchases and microtransactions raises questions about its classification.
The game has been described as a “mobile monetization model” rather than a pure gambling game due to its non-random rewards system. Players can earn rewards through gameplay, but they can also purchase virtual currency with real money to acquire items or skip levels.
Types of Games
Crossy Road is often associated with other mobile games featuring similar mechanics and in-game purchases, such as Flappy Bird and Candy Crush Saga. These games typically rely on microtransactions and encourage players to spend money on digital goods. The success of Crossy Road can be attributed to its innovative monetization strategy.
Gameplay Mechanics
Crossy Road’s gameplay revolves around avoiding obstacles while collecting points and items. Players control their character by tapping the screen, which allows them to change lanes or turn corners. As players progress through levels, the difficulty increases with more complex road configurations and faster-paced gameplay.
The game features various in-game purchases, including:
- Coins : Used to acquire new characters, outfits, or decorations for the player’s vehicle.
- Gems : A premium currency used to buy exclusive items, bypass level restrictions, or access special content.
- Candy : Virtual sweets that reward players with extra coins or gems.
To earn in-game money, players can collect virtual currency by completing daily challenges and achieving specific objectives. However, the pace at which rewards are earned is typically slow compared to spending real money on microtransactions.
In-Game Purchases
Crossy Road’s monetization model relies heavily on in-app purchases (IAPs). Players have three primary ways to acquire virtual goods:
- Microtransactions : Purchase items or currencies using real money.
- Daily Challenges : Complete specific objectives for rewards and bonuses.
- Level Progression : Spend gems to access new areas, characters, or skip levels.
The in-game purchases are designed to appeal to a broad audience by offering various pricing tiers, from affordable microtransactions (e.g., purchasing coins or sweets) to more expensive premium items (exclusive vehicles).
Regional and Legal Context
As Crossy Road is widely available across the globe, its regional context varies depending on local regulations. Many countries have implemented laws and guidelines for in-app purchases, including:
- Apple’s Guidelines : Apple has strict policies regarding IAPs, requiring developers to clearly communicate transaction costs.
- Google Play Store Policies : Google also enforces similar regulations for developers submitting apps with microtransactions.
Despite these efforts to regulate the gaming industry, some countries have not implemented equivalent guidelines. As such, regional context may differ in areas like:
- Monetary exchange rates : Some countries prohibit or restrict exchanging digital currencies between different markets.
- Payment processing limitations : In regions without access to mobile payments (e.g., credit cards), users may rely on cash-based systems.
Responsible Gaming
To maintain responsible gaming practices, Crossy Road encourages players:
- To set parental controls for in-game spending and access levels.
- To monitor their account balance regularly.
- Not to play while under the influence of any substance that could impair judgment or self-control.