Alternative payment methods
5 fast-growing payment trends in 2025
January 28, 2025•6 min
Seamless gaming is in demand
In gaming’s fast-paced marketplace, where user experience defines success, seamless payment systems have become a cornerstone of customer satisfaction. Players expect transactions—whether for in-game purchases, subscriptions, or platform upgrades—to be fast, intuitive, and secure. Any friction in the payment process risks losing sales and eroding trust. At the same time, the global adoption of digital payments is accelerating, with players increasingly favoring options like mobile wallets, one-click payments, and localized methods. Two driving forces are at play: technological advancements and changing consumer expectations. Businesses now have access to tools that make transactions faster and more seamless. At the same time, consumer demand for mobile-friendly payment experiences is accelerating (45% of customers will not retry a payment when it’s declined.) The game industry’s payment processing choices must keep pace with technology’s pace. Embedded payments, digital wallets, and real-time transactions—once considered cutting-edge—are now foundational to modern commerce.5 payment trends to watch
For game developers and publishers, staying competitive into the future means embracing these 5 trends while delivering frictionless checkout that matches the speed and expectations of the global gaming community. 1. Digital inclusion - meeting the needs of all players
Digital wallets are revolutionizing how people in developing and emerging markets access financial services, stepping in where traditional banking falls short. These platforms provide unbanked populations with simple, affordable solutions that meet everyday needs. Yet, a significant challenge remains: bridging the gap between these digital-first systems and traditional card-based payment methods for global consumers.
The future of digital wallets is expansive. Beyond payments, they are evolving into all-in-one platforms, integrating features like identity verification, loyalty programs, and healthcare management. According to recent research, this shift is gaining momentum, with digital wallets projected to account for over 50% of global e-commerce transaction value by 2025.
The key to leadership in this space will be creating seamless, interoperable ecosystems that empower players from game to app to web.
2. Real-time payments - A game-changer for global transactions
Real-time payments (RTP) are poised to dominate the payment landscape. As consumers increasingly require instant gratification, businesses are shifting focus from debating whether they should adopt RTP to determining how quickly they can implement it. Two key events impact the decision by businesses to adopt RTP:
- In March 2025, the Federal Reserve adopts ISO 20022, a global standard for financial data exchange. This move is expected to accelerate the use of the FedNow service, enabling 24/7/365 instant payments for individuals, businesses, and financial institutions.
- The Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA) Instant Credit Transfer Scheme is gaining traction across the EU, streamlining instant euro transactions across borders.
Account-to-account (A2A) payments, like ACH transfers, have traditionally lagged behind card-based payments regarding convenience, security, and consumer protection. However, this is beginning to change. New products, such as "pay by bank" solutions, are modernizing and simplifying the A2A payment process. These innovations make electronic payments faster, more accessible, and a viable alternative to traditional card-based transactions. As A2A systems evolve, they offer consumers greater flexibility in managing and completing payments, signaling a significant shift in the digital payment panorama.
4: Authentication simplified - digital identity and biometrics
For years, passwords, security questions, and card numbers have been the standard for authenticating users. However, these traditional methods have also been a prime target for fraud. The terrain is shifting. Authentication is moving toward secure, biometric-based credentials, such as facial recognition, fingerprints, and other advanced methods.
This evolution enhances security and convenience, offering a future where traditional PINs and passwords are no longer the norm. Biometric authentication reduces vulnerabilities associated with easily compromised data, paving the way for a more secure digital experience across industries.
5: AI’s power play - fraud prevention and conversion optimization
As cybercriminals become more sophisticated, traditional fraud detection systems—relying on static rules—struggle to keep up. Modern threats demand smarter, real-time solutions, and AI delivers precisely that. By analyzing login behaviors, device fingerprints, and other digital signals, AI can verify identities and detect suspicious activities, such as unusual purchases or logins, before damage occurs. Unlike reactive systems, AI continuously learns and adapts, offering a proactive defense against complex, evolving threats.
AI also enhances payment experiences, seamlessly combining fraud prevention with transaction personalization. Deep learning algorithms can analyze transaction patterns in real-time, flagging risks while optimizing payment flows. This dual capability protects businesses and improves user experiences, fostering trust and boosting engagement.
Consumer enthusiasm for AI is growing, with over two-thirds expressing interest in AI-driven shopping experiences. By 2025, more merchants will leverage machine learning tools to drive conversions and deepen customer engagement. 55% of senior payment professionals cite AI and machine learning integration as the leading trend in the payments industry, according to the Fintech and Advanced Payments Report 2025.
Adopting AI-powered tools for fraud detection and conversion optimization in the gaming industry isn't just forward-thinking—it's essential for staying competitive in an increasingly dynamic digital marketplace.
How Xsolla can help
Digital payments are no longer a convenience—they are a necessity. Players from around the globe expect fast, secure, and seamless payment options. This inclusivity is essential for developers aiming to reach diverse audiences with varying payment preferences. Mobile payments, in particular, play a crucial role by simplifying the purchasing process and making in-game content accessible to players in regions with limited traditional banking options. Xsolla Payments offers an adaptive and streamlined solution designed specifically for the gaming industry. Leveraging cutting-edge technology, such as machine learning, in our Anti-Fraud product, Xsolla protects transactions, reducing risks for developers and players. Furthermore, its expansive global payment portfolio—including support for digital wallets and real-time payment systems—ensures a frictionless experience, enabling developers to tap into a truly international player base.Ready to optimize your checkout experience?
- Connect with our team of experts to explore how Xsolla can enhance your payment solutions.
- Try our demos to learn how Xsolla Pay Station works and how it can benefit your business.
- Join the Xsolla community. Not a partner yet? Create an Xsolla Publisher Account today to unlock powerful tools for your game.
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