EVE Online protests could cost CCP $1 million

CCP the developers behind the cult hit MMO Eve Online, have had a pretty bad week. Now estimates say they could be out over a million dollars over the outrage.

It all started when an internal CCP document revealed that the company was planning or at least considering the implementation of virtual items for purchase in the EVE Online world.

The microtransaction plot didn't go over very well with EVE's user base who complained that they already have to pay a subscription fee, and were worried that in-game items could provide advantages for wealthy players willing to pay the high cost.

Vanity items had previously been on sale for surprisingly high prices like $70 for an in-game monocle.

In protest, players began canceling their subscriptions en masse. As of this writing, the number of EVE players that say they've canceled their subscription is up to 5,500. Though it is unknown how accurate that count is.

According to Develop Online an annual subscription to EVE costs €131 so the total loss of revenue could reach over $1 million USD or £648,000.

CCP has called an emergency meeting with select player delegates from EVE Online and are attempting to debate and negotiate the issue.