It’s been a while since Star Vault released Mortal Online’s latest expansion, Awakening. While current development focus is aimed directly at squashing the numerous problematic bugs that have caused problems, John VanderZwet has posted an update on the Mortal Online website to detail some upcoming changes, including a donation system set up on the request of the community:
After a community forum thread got us thinking about a donation system, we’ve decided to run with it. Very soon we’ll be opening up a new section on our website allowing you to contribute to Mortal Online’s development outside standard subscriptions. It’ll work something like Kickstarter does, only we’ll be handling it on our own. You’ll receive cool perks for donating. The more you wish to donate the more you’ll receive. We’ll unveil just what these things are shortly, but we will NEVER introduce anything that will give you an advantage in the game. We’re talking cosmetic and just simply cool things here.
Additionally, Mortal Online will be updated to include a new system to accomplish two tasks: Aid new players, and introduce more casual options that do not detract from the overall game experience.
(Source: Mortal Online)
MMO Fallout 
Are there any other subscription games that ask for donations?
I get the crowdfunding concept, but I struggle to see how a subscription game released over two years ago should have donations to keep it running. Obviously the payment model is not working for them.
At best this is a bandaid to get them a few more weeks financing.
I cannot wait to see how this is spun to their investors…
Other games also don’t have the same financial issues that Star Vault does. You can see in our charts that Mortal Online has yet to be profitable, so they appealed to the community and this was the suggestion. World War 2 Online has players who own multiple accounts to donate, while Island Forge had a Kick starter for advertising cash and Xsyon is supposedly doing some post-launch kick starter soon.
As for the investors, I can’t say. I have a feeling that after Mortal Online’s performance to date, there isn’t anywhere to go but up with their favor.
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