ISK (Interstellar Kredits) and PLEX (Pilot's License Extension) are two key currencies that play a significant role in the economy of New Eden and interactions between Capsuleers. Here's how they interoperate and function within the game:
ISK (Interstellar Kredits)
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Primary In-Game Currency:
- ISK is the main currency used for most in-game transactions across the universe.
- Capsuleers can earn ISK through various activities such as mining, missions, trading, exploration, piracy, and manufacturing.
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Usage:
- ISK can be used to buy ships, modules, ammunition, blueprints, and other items from the in-game market, or spent to create market orders.
- It is also used to pay for services such as ship repairs, blueprint research, and Corporation or Alliance fees.
- Players can also trade ISK with each other for the various deals, debts, and favors that spring up across New Eden.
PLEX (Pilot's License Extension)
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Premium Currency:
- PLEX is a premium currency that can be purchased with real money from the EVE Online store or for ISK on the player market.
- It can be used to upgrade EVE accounts from Alpha to Omega clone states (subscription), which unlocks access to all of EVE's skills and features.
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Usage:
- PLEX can be used to purchase various services such as character transfers, skill extractors, and cosmetic items.
- It can also be traded on the in-game market for ISK, effectively allowing Capsuleers to convert real money into in-game currency.
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Convenient Storage:
- PLEX can be stored as an item which can be moved around within space or placed securely in the PLEX Vault where it is kept safe and can be shared between characters on the same account.
Interaction Between ISK and PLEX
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On the Market:
- Capsuleers can buy and sell PLEX on the in-game market in exchange for ISK.
- The price of PLEX in ISK fluctuates based on supply and demand across New Eden, similar to real-world commodities.
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In the Economy:
- The ability to trade PLEX for ISK allows Capsuleers to earn the standard ISK currency no matter which kinds of activities they want to devote their time to.
- Conversely, Capsuleers who accumulate large amounts of ISK through various activities can purchase PLEX to pay for their subscriptions and other services without spending real money.
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Strategic Uses:
- Forward thinking Capsuleers can speculate on the price of PLEX, buying low and selling high to make a profit.
- Large corporations and alliances might stockpile PLEX as a reserve of wealth or use it to fund their operations.
ISK and PLEX are intertwined in a way that supports both economic activity across New Eden and provides flexibility to the Capsuleers that live within it, creating a unique economic ecosystem within EVE Online.
You can read more about all the currencies in EVE here: