Discord has recently introduced a new virtual currency, Orbs, as part of its expanding Quests feature. In this system, users earn Orbs by completing interactive tasks—such as watching promotional videos or engaging with select advertisements—within the Discord platform. Once earned, Orbs can be redeemed in the platform’s Shop for digital rewards including Nitro credits, profile customizations, and other exclusive items. The virtual currency is currently available in a limited beta on desktop and browser clients, and it is not convertible to real money nor usable outside of the Discord ecosystem.
The launch of Orbs represents a strategic development in Discord’s monetization and user engagement models. According to the official Discord Orbs FAQ, the new currency is intended to incentivize participation in in-app challenges and to provide users with alternative means to access premium features without monetary transactions. The beta phase allows the company to gather data and refine the system, ensuring that the rewards maintain a balance within its broader advertising and subscription offerings. This careful rollout underscores Discord’s effort to innovate within the digital rewards space while safeguarding its core revenue streams.
Image Credit: Discord