Why not include virtual trading/bidding of goods through an NPC in the game. At the moment we do this through forums but I think it'd be a lot easier to do it in game... This would be easily set up similar to the following:
* On chosing to "sell", you drag and drop item into bidding box (The item in your inventory then greys out)
* Minimum asking price and bid increment set.
* A pre-determined amount of time is set for the sale... 1 day, 2 days etc.
* A Deposit is set down based on the amount of days bid will go for. For each Day the sale exists, NPC takes 5% of asking/selling price. (Therefore if sale is 2 days, NPC takes 10% of asking price (10% deposit placed with NPC to begin sale. If Item sold above asking price, NPC automatically takes difference).
* If item not sold in indicated time NPC takes deposit and item automatically re-appears in players inventory in assigned area).
* Buyers simply go to the "buy" option and will see the list of current items for sale.
* If item is bidded for, player must place entire amount asked for immediately (or a percentage?). They then have a greyed out item placed into their inventory (ready for insertion if the bid is successful).
Of course, all variables above are subject to whatever works best.
Personally, I think it is a great idea that will add a little more excitement to a brilliant game. Imagine logging online the following morning to find your bid was successful and to have a new item in your inventory... this would really just give the game an extra kick.
What do you guys think?
