For the first time in the history of MMO games, CCP Games, creators of EVE Online have announced the appointment of an in-world lead economist for the game. They are commissioning a dedicated real world economist to constantly monitor and make a research for the virtual world. This appointment comes as a real testament to the growing intricacy and strength of EVE Online’s thriving virtual economy.

As the official report says, Dr. Eyjólfur Guðmundsson brings an over 15-years-experience in economic studies and research, and joins CCP directly from the University of Akureyri, Iceland, where he – among several teaching positions – held the position of the Dean of the Faculty of Business and Science. Prior to that, he was a research associate at the University of Rhode Island’s Department of Environmental and Natural Resource Economics where he also completed his PhD. He has also authored or co-authored 15 publications. Dr. Guðmundsson’s first blog on EVE Online economics can be found here.

“Virtual worlds and MMOGs are emerging as one of the most interesting areas of experimental economics. Since becoming involved with EVE Online, I have been exploring the game and growing more fascinated with the community, its complexities and the unlimited potential of it all. I can see that CCP has understood that the social structures in EVE Online are far beyond those of other games,” said Eyjólfur Guðmundsson. “Economic information is the lifeblood of the game and I believe that, by ensuring everyone has access to the same data, we will enhance the player experience and facilitate economic stability in EVE.”

Dr. Guðmundsson will also publish quarterly reports on the state of the EVE Online economy as well as ongoing analyses of other economic indicators, such as inflation, economic growth and price trends, all this in an effort to provide players with information necessary to make strategic decisions. This should also have a considerable impact on the game’s future development.

“EVE Online may be set in the future, but the skills needed to play are rooted in the real world of today. Players operate vast corporations whose shares are traded in-game among players so economic strength and agility is key to their success. Just as entrepreneurs and executives rely on real-world economic indicators, EVE Online players need timely information and analysis of the in-game economy,” said Hilmar Pétursson, CEO of CCP Games. “That’s why we created this important position and we’re delighted to have someone of Eyjólfur’s caliber and expertise fill the role.”

So, now that CCP is providing its EVE Online users with more real-world economic indicators and timely information, do you think you’ll be able to become an even better entrepreneur? You know, tens of thousands of years in the future, money will still count.
Source: softpedia.com