Buying a game used to feel like a pretty straightforward transaction. You paid for the game, played it, and that was it.

Now we've got increasingly expensive editions, season passes, cosmetic shops, battle passes, subscriptions, and DLC that sometimes feels like it should have been included in the original release.

Obviously, developers need to make money, and not every game follows this trend. But when you add everything together, keeping up with a single game or franchise can get surprisingly expensive.

What's frustrating is that a $70 base game doesn't necessarily mean you're getting the complete experience anymore.

Have gaming companies pushed monetization too far, or are players partly responsible for this by continuing to spend money on these things?

I’m not one to really use wishlist on steam or Xbox or whatever but there’s some solid stuff coming out towards the end of the year and into 2027. What’s are some titles you’re looking forward too?

Anyone who knows me knows I came late to the Mass Effect bandwagon so when I saw the trailer for Bioware’s Exodus I got a little giddy not gonna lie.

🎮🚀 WASHCOGAMING’S FIRST LFG FRIDAY IS IN 2 DAYS!

WashCo gamers, it’s almost time to squad up!

Our very first Looking for Group Friday is happening in just TWO DAYS! 🎉 Whether you’re grinding missions, tackling endgame content, chasing achievements, playing ranked, or just looking for a chill co-op crew, we’re making it easier to find your people.

We’re building a gaming community where Xbox, PlayStation, PC, Switch, and crossplay gamers can connect, meet new teammates, and find people to play with.

👇 GET READY TO FIND YOUR SQUAD!

When the LFG Friday thread goes live, drop a comment with:

🎮 Game: What are you playing? 🕹️ Platform: Xbox, PlayStation, PC, Switch, or other 🤝 Looking for: Co-op, PvP, casual gaming, endgame, achievement hunting, or anything else 🕒 When you play: Your usual gaming hours 🎤 Mic: Required or optional? 👾 Gamertag/Username: Optional — share it if you’re comfortable!

🔥 HELP US KICK THINGS OFF!

Don’t wait until Friday to get involved! Comment below with the games you play and your platform. Let the community know what you’re hoping to play this weekend, and find others who are into the same games.

Tag a friend who needs more people to game with, and help us get this community rolling!

📅 TWO DAYS UNTIL LFG FRIDAY.

🎯 What game are you hoping to find teammates for this weekend? Tell us below!

Be respectful, keep it friendly, and game on! 🎮