Financing

Travian is financed through players upgrading accounts with Travian Plus. Faced with further financial difficulties of maintaining Travian, a further 'Gold' feature was introduced, which was met with controversy.^[7] The introduction of 'Gold' allows players to directly influence the game mechanics: for instance, by increasing resource production, instant completion of building and researches or applying a strength bonus to troops. However, it is possible to get gold without purchasing it. Most recently, Travian has expanded to include a "Travian Shop"^[8] which includes Travian-related items like clothing and mugs.