A few days ago, there was a nationwide power outage in Venezuela, which turned into a crisis for the in-game economy in the MMORPG classic Runescape.
The influence players have on the economy of an online game like Runescape is highlighted by what recently happened in Venezuela.
Venezuela and Gold Farming
Why did a power outage in Venezuela trigger a crisis in the MMO? It is known within the Runescape community that for many Venezuelans, farming gold in the MMORPG is more lucrative than regular employment. The gold in the game essentially has a higher value than the national currency.
Therefore, many Venezuelans farm gold in Runescape because it allows them to provide a better life for themselves and their families.
As these players were unable to play due to the power outage, it affected the in-game economy.
How does gold farming work in Runescape? Players farm items such as Dragon Bones and sell them for gold to other players. The accumulated gold is then sold for real money to Runescape players.
An Ingame Crisis Due to a Power Outage
How did the effects manifest? Suddenly, there were hardly any Dragon Bones being sold. These items can be farmed in-game and then offered for a lot of gold. When the supply of Dragon Bones suddenly dwindled, it was clear that this was related to the power outage in Venezuela.
But the value of Nature Runes and volcanic ash, as well as some other items, was also influenced by the power outage.
What are Dragon Bones? Dragon Bones are loot from adult dragons. The bones are used to train the character. Depending on whether one buries them, incinerates them, or offers them at an altar, the character gains different amounts of Prayer experience.
Prayer is a combat skill that provides buffs to the hero. Dragon Bones offer a very good option for training the hero.
How do the players react? Reactions range from surprise to amusement.
Some players are surprised by how much influence gold farmers have on the economy of a game. Others make jokes about the situation.
Murdock07 writes on Reddit: “It’s incredible how much support Jagex has provided for Venezuela compared to the USA.”
