This sort of stuff to me has always been a victimless crime, or a non-issue. If people want to spend $18 for in-game paint sets or something, I say go for it. If they're willing to pay for it and want it, that's their choice. As long as kids aren't stealing credit cards to do it, what's the harm? I've played MMOs before and never purchased items other than the additional content stuff, but if others want to then I say let them have at it. Same with DLC that generally gets frowned up. Why do I care about DLC I won't buy if others want it? Let 'em have it, doesn't affect me.

Why would a player say "these prices are getting out of hand!" as if they're forced to purchase the items? Just don't buy them, nobody is making you.