An interesting article from the BBC on the trade and sale of virtual items and the economy it has created.

Buying success in online gaming
By Dan Simmons
Reporter, BBC Click Online

As online gaming becomes increasingly popular, real-world trading of virtual items used in these games has rocketed. Dan Simmons finds out what happens when fantasy gaming meets cold, hard cash.

The communities created by online gaming attract millions of players

With the spread of broadband connections, multi-player fantasy gaming, in which thousands of gamers can play simultaneously, has taken off.

Stunning virtual worlds promise adventure and glory, often for a monthly access fee of around $10 to $15 (£6 to £8).

You can read the whole article here.