I’ve read numerous topics on gem prices and just to state the position I’m coming from, I’m comfortable with them. I accept that the price of gems is determined by the rate of conversion going on and I think it’s a reasonable system. I also tend to believe prices will continue to rise (as in, more gold for fewer gems) and I’m sitting on a huge pile of gems as a consequence – hopefully all I’ll ever need. But that’s beside the point I intend to make here.
Much as we claim this system finds its own balance, there are actually a number of constants in it. That is, any time there is a gem-purchased commodity that can be otherwise valued directly in gold, it represents a constant. And as the price of gems inflates, which is otherwise not a bad thing, it can create some oddball situations.
As one example, the Instant Repair Canister. This is a boost, of sorts, but it’s acquired through gems. It’s only value is to save on repairs. Now here’s a problem. The cost of the canister now wildly exceeds its value. You can buy them in bulk for 60 gems per, but that’s roughly 40 silver at current exchange. Meanwhile, even if you’re in all orange gear at level 80 and everything that can be damaged IS damaged, the cost of repair in silver is only about 20. Now, tell me. Who is ever going to buy these canisters again?
Mystic Forge Stones are another example. They can be used to make Mystic Salvage Kits. I decline to run the number but at present this represents better value than using other salvage kits – notably the Master’s Salvage Kit that has the same chance of recovery. Mystic Forge Stones cost (in bulk) 45 gems per. Right now that’s about 30 silver. If that ever passes 50 silver, by my calculation, it will be cheaper to buy Master’s Salvage Kits in bulk rather than make Mystic Kits.
Now, my suggestion to the devs responsible for the economy is this. Carefully review all gem store products for direct gold-gem comparisons and ensure as gems inflate in value that there is, at least, an incentive to still use and purchase gems. Otherwise, key pieces of your equation (reasons why people would buy gems at all) will stop working.
Character slots, bank space, expansions (if gem purchasable) have no direct gold comparison -other than- the gold to gems exchange rates. Those will take care of themselves. You don’t have to modify them. Any gem products that have the main direct effect of saving money, however, or which serve uses which could otherwise be had with money … those need to be regularly adjusted.
Good job otherwise. I figured I’d lend a hand.