The TF2 store is pretty interesting as well. There are lots of cosmetic items for sale (TF2 is after all, everyone's favorite war-themed hat simulator) and most

The TF2 store is pretty interesting as well. There are lots of cosmetic items for sale (TF2 is after all, everyone's favorite war-themed hat simulator) and most weapons are available for sale for those who don't want to wait for a drop, trade or craft. New weapons are introduced regularly, but the player community is very vocal about weapon balance. There are few direct upgrades. Many weapons are "crutches" in that they confer benefit to the unskilled (new) player, but experienced player often prefers the "vanilla" loadout. The store benefits the player who doesn't want to wait to get the latest shiny object, but it doesn't significantly impact players who don't have the money. Few companies take a fraction of the care that valve takes with their flagship title.