Discord has introduced in-app commerce features that allow users to purchase in-game items without leaving the platform. The move comes as the company prepares for a potential IPO and seeks to expand its revenue streams. Historically, Discord has relied on its Nitro subscription service and enhanced server tools for monetization. While the platform reported a 44 percent increase in revenue to $445 million in 2022, its overall monetization has remained limited.
Previous attempts, including a digital game storefront, were unsuccessful, and advertising has only partially filled the gap. The new feature allows users to create wishlists for in-game items and send them as gifts through direct messages.
This functionality is currently being tested with the Marvel Rivals server, one of Discord’s largest gaming communities, which has over 4 million members. For context, the VALORANT server hosts approximately 1.6 million members. The collaboration highlights Discord’s continued focus on gaming, despite the platform’s expansion into broader communities such as entertainment, education, and science.
Gaming Remains Central to Discord’s Platform
Gaming continues to dominate Discord’s user base. As of August 2025, 23,805 of the platform’s 31,591 servers are focused on gaming. Entertainment accounts for 12,968 servers, while categories such as Education, Science & Tech, and Music comprise a smaller portion of the total.
The data reinforces Discord’s position as a central hub for gaming communities, even as it explores new features and revenue models. The introduction of in-app commerce also reflects a broader trend in digital distribution and virtual commerce.
Similar moves by companies like Roblox and Walmart demonstrate how platforms are increasingly becoming points of sale for digital content and games. For developers, Discord’s new features offer potential opportunities to monetize their audiences directly. However, they also raise questions about customer ownership and the economics of game distribution if an intermediary platform handles transactions.
Implications for Developers and Players
If executed successfully, Discord’s in-app commerce could become a valuable channel for developers looking to reach their fan base directly. It also positions Discord as a potential revenue partner rather than just a communication platform. The company’s focus on in-game purchases complements its broader strategy of maintaining engagement within its gaming communities, providing users with a seamless way to interact and transact without leaving the platform.
Source: SuperJoost
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What new features has Discord added for in-game purchases?
Discord now allows users to buy in-game items directly through the platform, create wishlists, and send items as gifts via direct messages.
Which servers are part of the initial rollout?
The Marvel Rivals server, which has over 4 million members, is part of the initial rollout. The platform plans to expand features to other gaming communities over time.
How does this affect developers?
Developers could potentially monetize their fan base directly on Discord, but it also raises questions about who owns the customer relationship—the developer or Discord as the intermediary.
Is gaming still the primary focus for Discord?
Yes. As of August 2025, gaming accounts for the majority of Discord servers, highlighting the platform’s deep roots in gaming culture.
How does this fit into broader industry trends?
The move reflects wider trends in virtual commerce and direct-to-consumer strategies, similar to initiatives by Roblox and Walmart in the digital space.
