Virtual economy

A virtual economy is an in-game economy, usually consisting of income streams, marketplaces, and gold sinks.

Typical MMORPG income streams

 * Money drops from mobs.
 * Item drops from mobs.
 * Harvested items (also known as resources or trade goods).
 * Skill crafted items.

Typical MMORPG marketplaces

 * Selling to a vendor.
 * Using the Auction House.
 * Informal player transactions.

Typical MMORPG moneysinks

 * Training fees.
 * Transportation fees.
 * Vendor purchases.
 * Repair bills.
 * Quest item turn-ins.
 * Auction House fees and cuts.