Razer launches “Paid to Play” initiative

No, your eyes do not deceive you. Razer has announced a “Paid to Play” initiative in correlation with the zVault digital wallet and currency system they launched earlier this year.

So what exactly does that all mean?

Through the use of Razer Cortex, (an all-in-one free software with PC performance tools, game deals, and more) gamers are able to earn zSilver currency (Razer’s digital currency) while playing popular games launched from Cortex.  This will include playing games such as Paladins, OverWatch, League of Legends, and Counter-Strike: Global Offensive. Gamers  will be able to earn 3 zSilver per minute of game time, with up to 900 zSilver per day.

“Razer is allowing you to earn 6 zSilver per minute for the first two weeks of the program”

Your zSilver currency will then be able to be used to redeem exclusive swag, product discounts, games, and exclusive products not available for retail purchase. Some of the items available to be purchased with zSilver include: Razer Mamba Chroma gaming mouse, Razer Blackwidow Chroma, and the ever popular limited edition Razer Mug Holder, which is not immediately redeemable at this stage. Razer’s plans for the future of this initiative is to add more commodities to redeem such as coffee, movies, and so on, adding more incentive to kick your gaming hours up a notch.

“The concept of everyday gamers getting paid to play has never been done before,” says Min-Liang Tan, Razer CEO and co-founder. “Gamers may reap the benefits of a rewards system simply by doing things they’re already doing.”

“The world of gaming is the ultimate even playing field, representing every kind of person in the world. We are excited about helping good people to get Razer products wherever they are, whatever their situations, and regardless of what game their playing, as long as they are gamers.”

This rewards system is available to all gamers around the world, regardless of skill level. The catch 22 being that you must have a verified Razer ID, whether you create a new one or use one you already have, and the games must be launched from the Razer Cortex system in order for you to be eligible to earn zSilver.

Information on what you can redeem so far is available in the zSilver Rewards Catalogue.

So that you can rack up the zSilver a little faster, Razer is allowing you to earn 6 zSilver per minute for the first two weeks of the program, instead of the standard 3.

Personally, I think this will be a great new incentive. While you won’t be able to earn some serious bucks like the MLG gamers of the world, at least the time you spend Penta-killing your opponents will go towards getting you super cool swag!

What are your thoughts about Razer’s “Paid to Play” program?

Let us know if you love it, hate it, or what’s on your list to redeem first!