Some business-minded mobile gamers are making good use of their high level Pokemon GO accounts, selling them on sites like eBay for hundreds of dollars.
Pokemon GO has already become a massive money-spinner for a number of parties involved. Nintendo has seen its share price skyrocket since the launch of the title, while the game also consists of half of all in-app purchases in the mobile gaming market at this moment in time. As a matter of fact, even players of the title are looking to make some extra cash.
As it turns out, a number of Pokemon GO players have taken their high-level accounts to the likes of eBay and Craigslist, selling them off to gamers who lack the time or inclination to reach a higher level on their own. Of course, the amount charged varies wildly based on the player’s level and the number of rare Pokemon that are included in the deal.
The difference between prices varies dramatically, too. Gamers looking to get up to level 20+ are looking at some astronomical prices, including a $1,000 price tag for a level 23 account. Meanwhile, a less complete package, such as one that includes a Dragonite with 1401 CP and level 16, can come in at approximately $99.
It’s not just the outright selling of accounts that is happening, either, as Pokemon GO players can also hire other players to level up accounts for them. These real-world equivalents of the Pokemon Day Care certainly come with daunting price tags of their own, though. Indeed, players can expect to spend over $200 to bring their level up to level 20 or more.
It’s far from the only time that Pokemon GO has been seen as an opportunity by some to make a little extra on the side, however. A number of gamers have been hiring drivers to get them to far away PokeStops, which saves a little by way of time but no doubt leaves the wallet a lot lighter. Then again, if it helps avoid a Central Park scramble to catch a Vaporeon, then maybe the cost is worth it.
Although the idea of paying for a Pokemon GO account will seem a little like cheating for some, other users may see it as their best opportunity to get the most out of the game. After all, rural areas are thin on Pokemon, perhaps relying on direct requests for PokeStops and Gyms for something to do with the game, while countries such as Canada have only recently had access to the game at all. To be the very best, like no one ever was, some might think that it’s worth the punt.
Pokemon GO is out now for Android and iOS devices.