In just a few years, companies have jumped headfirst into the metaverse, chasing fresh ways to engage people. What once sounded like science fiction is now a buzzing digital world—full of activity, trade, and tight-knit online communities. It’s no longer just a concept; it’s alive and kicking.
But let’s get specific. What do people actually spend their money on in the metaverse? What are they doing there, and why are digital items, from virtual swords to branded sneakers, actually worth buying?
While the metaverse is still developing and may not have reached the level of mass adoption yet, it’s clear that gaming and entertainment are driving forces behind its growth. And with crypto and blockchain technology acting as a foundation, users are finding creative, interactive and profitable reasons to stick around.
Metaverse Casinos: A High-Roller Experience
In the last few years, many online casinos have offered a gamified, visually rich environment, where you can make real earnings all while you enjoy roulette using cryptocurrencies or explore thousands of other fun games or indulge in the thrill of betting on sporting fixtures. The social interaction and high-stakes environment mirror that of a physical casino without the need to dress up or travel.
In line with that, metaverse casinos are emerging as the next frontier. These aren’t your average slot sites – they’re fully immersive casino environments where users walk in with their avatars, interact with others in real time, and bet using cryptocurrency.
Additionally, the use of crypto makes transactions fast and secure, and with smart contracts managing the odds and payouts, many users see this as a more transparent form of iGaming. It’s no wonder these virtual casinos are gaining popularity among both gamers and crypto enthusiasts alike.
Gamers Are Spending Big
Gaming is hands down the biggest draw in the metaverse. Whether it’s free-to-play adventures or paid gaming environments, users are showing up with both interest and wallets open. According to a recent survey, half of Metaverse users have played free video games, and 29% have purchased or played paid ones.
Platforms like Decentraland, The Sandbox, and Roblox have transformed the gaming landscape by offering immersive environments where users can play, socialize and make purchases using cryptocurrency. These aren’t just games – they’re expansive worlds where digital economies thrive.
Gamers are buying in-game currency, custom avatars, rare weapons, skins and even land. All of this taps into the psychology of ownership and personalization. Players just don’t want to win, they want to look good doing it and they’re willing to pay for the privilege.
NFTs Are More Than Just Hype
NFTs (non-fungible tokens) were once considered a buzzword, but in the metaverse, they’ve cemented their place. Gamers and digital collectors are now purchasing NFTs not just as speculative but as functional, usable parts of their virtual identity and experience.
An NFT in the metaverse might be a limited-edition skin for your avatar, a pet that grants in-game perks, or a virtual piece of art you can hang in your digital condo. These aren’t just flashy graphics — they often provide real utility or status. And because they’re recorded on a blockchain, users have verifiable ownership, the ability to trade and sometimes, even the opportunity to earn passive income through resale or staking.
The purchase of NFTs aligns with the core appeal of the metaverse: customization, ownership and exclusivity
Streaming, Socializing, and Spending
Beyond gaming, metaverse users are actively engaging in social and entertainment-focused activities – often with their digital wallets in tow. Platforms offer live-streamed concerts, comedy shows, and virtual events with big-name artists and influencers.
Users are paying for digital tickets, event access, and even VIP experiences. It’s not unusual to find exclusive concerts or fashion drops that require crypto payment or owning a specific NFT to get in. For many, these aren’t just events – they’re cultural moments.
Virtual meetups, date nights and hangouts are also growing. With social features like voice chat, avatars, and shared activities, the metaverse is starting to feel like the new digital living room. Some users even pay to access private spaces or exclusive communities.
Cryptocurrency Is the Currency of Choice
In the metaverse, cryptocurrency isn’t just accepted — it’s expected. Most platforms operate on blockchain technology and require users to transact using coins like Ethereum (ETH), Decentraland’s MANA, or The Sandbox’s SAND.
These currencies power the in-world economy, allowing users to buy digital goods, attend events, trade NFTs, and even invest in virtual land. They also allow for peer-to-peer transactions, tipping content creators, and participating in decentralized governance (yes, some platforms let users vote on community decisions using tokens).
Crypto’s volatility doesn’t seem to scare away users – in fact, many embrace it. The idea of earning rewards through gameplay (known as “play-to-earn”) or staking NFTs for yield is attractive to a new generation that sees value in digital-first assets.
Virtual Land and Digital Real Estate
Though still niche, virtual real estate purchases are becoming a growing part of the metaverse economy. Users can buy plots of land, build homes, open stores, or rent them out. While only 6% of surveyed users report purchasing virtual property, the number is expected to rise as brands continue to stake their claim in the digital world.
Landowners can host events, build digital experiences, or collaborate with brands for monetization. Think virtual art galleries, retail shops, or even billboard ads in high-traffic areas. Ownership is recorded via NFTs, and some plots have sold for hundreds of thousands of dollars, especially in high-demand areas.
Digital Fashion and Avatar Upgrades
Your avatar is your identity in the metaverse – and people are willing to spend to make it look good. From streetwear to haute couture, digital fashion is booming. Major brands like Gucci and Nike have already released virtual items that users can purchase and wear.
Whether it’s a limited-edition jacket or futuristic sneakers, these items often sell out fast. Some even use NFTs to showcase digital art or accessories they’ve collected, integrating their personal story into how their avatar looks and moves.