My most memorable moment in Etrian Odyssey was the discovery that prices for items and services rapidly inflate in accordance with my stats. The town’s economy in Etrian Odyssey equals or surpasses any F.O.E. in tormenting any guild. After comparing the economic system in Etria to the global economy, I cannot decide which is more broken. In the real world, the rich get richer and look down on their financially inferior neighbours. In Etrian Odyssey, the town seems to be stuck in some form of socialism; verging on communism. Come to think of it, that scenario is actually worthy of applause. Think of it, a medieval town conceiving of a revolutionary social/political system without any contribution by Karl Marx or Vladimir Lenin.

All praise aside to whatever state/bloc that is Etria, I must address a flaw that it also shares with any country/political state that adopts communism: It does not work! In your attempts to compete with your capitalist neighbours, you suffer one of two fates: you'll eventually be forced to accept a measure of capitalism and become communist-lite or the whole party takes a turn for the worst and everyone wants out. Take Shilleka for example, the poor girl is barely making ends meet. One night, I'm sure she'll make a run to the local fiefdom or duchy and re-open shop there.

Every time I drag my battered guild members back to town, I'm immediately singled out as a wealthy bourgeoisie. Seemingly threatened by my achievements, the villagers respond with ferocity and solidarity. Reminiscent of U.N. sessions during the Cold War, the villagers and my guild sit on opposite sides of the fence. The villagers make outrageous requests and ask steep prices. Since there is no debate/haggle option available, I'm forced to accept the antics of the local Red party. Personally, I thought my guild exploits benefited the town and I would receive a measure of gratitude. So far, I have encountered mysterious guards that vanish without a trace. Apparently, my guild is on the state police's list. I pray that I do not encounter Etria’s Joseph Stalin.