The video game industry has undergone exponential growth and transformation, adding various economic models and social networking influences. This study aims to dissect these complexities by comparing the economics of team and single-player games, analyzing the role of social networks in shaping consumer purchase behavior and taking a closer look at different monetization strategies. Using a combination of literature reviews, case studies, and quantitative analysis, the study reveals the significant impact of social networks on consumer choice, with team-based games often enjoying higher long-term profitability due to their inherent social elements and micro-event-based models. Single-player games, on the other hand, offer unique value through narrative depth and personal experience. This research is of critical importance to stakeholders such as video game developers, digital marketers, economists, and policymakers working on or studying the digital economy. While the study provides important insights, it also acknowledges the limitations posed by the rapidly evolving nature of the industry. Future research should focus on emerging technologies such as virtual reality and blockchain to fully understand their impact on the video game economy.