didn't think about that, but perhaps it's been around longer in form of cable/Internet subs and whatnot. this feels different in that it's more microlevel; "pay to play this one thing." which gaming did pioneer (2), for legit reasons (sever costs, support, maintenance). but we've let it run rampant w/ abuse, especially streaming services. idk, i'm conflicted with the whole thing (and everything in the world); can't give stuff away for free, but also: money incentivizes abuse. c22