> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://idlegame.gitbook.io/idlegame/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://idlegame.gitbook.io/idlegame/idle-openshop/upgrade-pricing.md).

# Upgrade Pricing

Since the game operates in seasonal cycles, **upgrade costs are not fixed**. Prices are adjusted each season to match market conditions and maintain economic balance.

Pricing Formula:

* **Upgrade Price** = *Base Cost* × *Change Rate*
* **Earning Increase** = *Base Earning* × *Change Rate*

### Example – Season 2

* **Change Rate:** 20,000
* **Token Used:** $ZHU

{% stepper %}
{% step %}
Store Upgrade – Level 1

**Base Cost:** 1 → Upgrade Price = `1 × 20,000` = **20,000 ZHU**

**Base Earning Increase:** 0.00016 → Earning Increase = `0.00016 × 20,000` = **3.2 ZHU**
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
**Menu Upgrade – Level 1** *(Unlocks Lemon Juice)*

**Base Cost:** 20 → Upgrade Price = `20 × 20,000` = **400,000 ZHU**

**Base Selling Price:** 0.00357 → Selling Price = `0.00357 × 20,000` = **71.4 ZHU**
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

By dynamically adjusting upgrade prices each season, the game ensures a balanced economy and fair earning potential for all players.

<figure><img src="https://3758650955-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FQWPiL4bjYSaDuX5hxnLM%2Fuploads%2FqfRH8nZ80vMjMN3ZJxqd%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=d867b99d-270b-4474-8df6-dec443ecb83a" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

<figure><img src="https://3758650955-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FQWPiL4bjYSaDuX5hxnLM%2Fuploads%2FxxDqkrg0nlpVK9FLfgAO%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=368b8a3d-928b-4e7b-b708-49c9fcc10da9" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>