P2P — Definition, examples, FAQs, and more

P2P: a brief history

The term “P2P” appears to have first circulated among players in the context of online multiplayer and text-based games. It likely emerged as a shorthand in game forums or player discussions to quickly describe games that required payment to access or continue playing.

Over time, usage of the term expanded as new business models appeared. Today, it is commonly used to contrast pay-to-play games with free-to-play or other payment models.

How it's used today

Players most often encounter the term P2P when discussing games that require ongoing payments to access their content. It comes up in conversations about how a game is funded and what that means for its community.

Types of games where the term is commonly used include:

MMORPG, RPI, PvE, PvP, MUD, RPMUD.

P2P examples

• World of Warcraft: A classic example where players pay a monthly subscription to access the game’s vast world and content updates.
• Final Fantasy XIV: Another MMORPG that operates on a subscription model, offering extensive storyline and world-building.
• EVE Online: Offers a unique space exploration experience with a P2P option for players seeking full access to its features.
• DragonRealms: A commercial MUD with multiple subscription options that allowed players to participate in different servers. Each server had its own rules and appealed to a different player type.

Myths and misconceptions

1. P2P games are dying out. Despite the rise of free-to-play models, many online gamers still prefer the P2P model for its uninterrupted, in-depth gaming experience without the distraction of in-game purchases.
2. All P2P games are expensive. While P2P games require a subscription, the cost is often comparable to buying a new game every few months, and long-term players might find more value in a continuously updated P2P game.
3. P2P games never include extra purchases or content. Some P2P games may offer optional expansions or cosmetic upgrades, even though the main content is available with the subscription.
4. P2P models guarantee fair gameplay for everyone. While subscriptions can reduce pay-to-win elements, P2P games may still face issues like imbalance or community challenges unrelated to payment.
5. P2P communities are always more dedicated or mature. While requiring payment can encourage commitment, player behavior and community culture depend on many factors besides whether a game is pay-to-play.

P2P FAQs

How does P2P differ from F2P?

In a pay-to-play model, players pay upfront or through a subscription to access the game, often receiving a more comprehensive and ad-free experience. Free-to-play (F2P) games, on the other hand, are accessible without initial payment but might include in-game purchases or ads to generate revenue.

Are P2P games more expensive than F2P games?

Not necessarily. While P2P games require a regular payment to play, F2P games can sometimes become more expensive if players frequently purchase in-game items or currency. The total cost depends on the player’s spending habits.

Can you switch from P2P to F2P?

Yes, some games initially launched as pay-to-play have transitioned to a free-to-play model to attract a larger player base. This switch often introduces microtransactions as a new revenue stream.

In other cases, P2P games can transition to F2P in a legacy state when they are no longer profitable. Instead of being shut down completely, the game is made available to players for free but without any further updates or development beyond minor bug fixes.

This is the case for some commercial multi-user dungeons (MUDs) that were once P2P or P2W. Other commercial games have switched to a freemium model.

What are the benefits of P2P games?

P2P games typically offer a more polished and expansive experience, with regular updates, dedicated support, and a more balanced gameplay environment since access barriers can deter cheaters and ensure a committed player community.

Are there free trials for P2P games?

Many pay-to-play games offer free trials, allowing players to experience the game for a limited time before committing to a subscription. This helps players decide if the game is worth the investment.