Microsoft on Xbox One microtransactions -- "We're still learning"

Microsoft has incorporated feedback mechanisms in its Xbox One games with microtransactions to monitor player buying behavior as a means to craft an experience more in line with player expectations, Microsoft corporate VP Phil Spencer told Kotaku in a new interview.

"I want to be able to learn from what we put in," Spencer said. "So let's make sure we are crafting the game and the analytics so we can see what the consumers--the gamers--like and don't--if you assume buying habits are a reflection of what people like. So that we can craft the experience better for the gamer."

Overall, Spencer said Microsoft does not have a set strategy for microtransactions. "We're still learning," he said. Numerous Xbox One games feature microtransactions, including Ryse: Son of Rome, Killer Instinct, and Forza Motorsport 5, among others.

Microtransactions for future Xbox One games aren't likely to follow a pay-to-win model, mostly because that's not what gamers are looking for, Spencer said.

"It's easy to say something like, 'I'll never allow somebody to buy the win of the game, I won't let them buy victory,' but that's kind of a trite answer. I'd say, 'Yeah, I guess I have that line, that [we wouldn't have] "Pay five bucks and get 1000 achievements" or something stupid like that.' I'm always pushing against that," he said. "But, in reality, that's not what the gamers are looking for. They're usually looking for customization and their gameplay style opening up."

The Xbox One launched last Friday, November 22, and sold more than 1 million consoles around the world during its first day.