Final Fantasy, one of the most acclaimed role-playing game series, is gearing up to debut its latest installment with Final Fantasy XIII. This long awaited sequel will feature innovations in different areas of the game as well as some impressive visuals.

One of the main areas getting a revamp is the battle system which has been reworked in favor of a more interactive gameplay, including combos and an all new summon system.

Another area that will include some innovations is the store system. Final Fantasy XIII is introducing something that resembles an online marketplace. Players will be able to buy and sell weapons and equipment in an in-game virtual store. These virtual stores only provide access to a fictional “internet” of sorts and will not involve actual transactions between different players. The stores will be available at all save points where players will be able to access the system and trade their stuff.

Twofish, Inc. has launched Twofish Elements, which the company claims is a true “Economic Engine.” Twofish Elements is middleware that will allow game developers to securely manage all aspects of in-game microtransactions. The product is targeted at pay-as-you-play game developers who don’t have the time and the resources to develop their own in-house in-game economy more »