What pay to win is and why ELDT is not
Pay to win is a game model in which spending real money gives you an advantage over those who do not pay: better players, more resources or faster progress.
Many free games fund themselves by selling advantages: energy to play more, special players, attributes or coins that turn into signings. That is pay to win, and the problem is that the competition stops being fair: whoever pays most, wins most. In an online football manager that weighs even more, because the whole point is competing against other people under the same rules. If the table can be bought, it stops telling the truth.
ELDT is not pay to win. Real money cannot buy players, attribute boosts, energy, club budget or results. The market is played with the club's virtual money, which you earn by managing: tickets, sponsors, prizes and sales.
What does exist is the Supporter plan and credits, both without any sporting advantage: an AI-made crest and kit, squad personalisation, more messages with the Manager's Assistant, creating private leagues with friends (joining one is free) and conveniences such as saving one tactic per match type. The whole game can be played without paying.
See it in the game: the manager's guide.
Related terms
More on Club and finances
See also: online football manager · guides on the blog