Have you ever thought about the actual cost of operating an MMO server — and what would happen if the studio weren’t making enough money to cover those costs? Wild Terra 2 is going to its community with its hat in hand, trying to drum up $1800 a month to keep the game worlds up and running.
“Wild Terra 2 has been around for several years and is available without restrictions after a one-time purchase,” said the studio. “The maintenance and operation of the servers is a significant part of the monthly expenses, which include server rental, various additional software, and services.”
The Russian indie studio Juvty Worlds said that it’s employing just four people right now. Players can donate to the studio directly or buy a one of the many supporter packs that range from $20 to — and we’re not making this up — $299,000. Yeah, it’s clearly a bit of a joke from the studio, but at least with that last one you get your own personal island and temples in every city where people can worship at the shrine of your whaleness.
For comparison’s sake, City of Heroes Homecoming, which is legally obligated not to seek donations beyond its costs, generally raises and spends around $5000-$6000 a month. Fundraising goals for Star Wars Galaxies Legends are usually around $1500.
