Imagine if DOOM added microtransactions to the game, making gameplay more frustrating for players. Programmer Guy Dupont demonstrated this by implementing a system where a QR code for payment would appear every time a player collected an item. If the player ignored the prompt, DOOM would freeze until the payment was made. This concept is ironic considering DOOM originally became popular through a free shareware model, where players could try the first level for free and then purchase the full version for $40 USD (equivalent to $86.46 in 2024). Adding microtransactions to such a beloved game could potentially alienate fans and disrupt the immersive gaming experience.

We need to STOP running DOOM on new things
and START putting new things into DOOM.

For example, today I added micro-transactions to the original game. Any time you pick up an item, the game freezes until you make a payment. pic.twitter.com/p9j9eYyOwJ

— Guy Dupont (@gvy_dvpont) April 13, 2024