Not only was Castronova rejecting bitcoin as a gaming currency, he was condemning the unregulated virtual world to a gray, inflationary future of State-sanctioned centrally-managed currency roach motels.

FORBES: Virtual Currencies and Roach Motels

If Buffett can pull off the same type of experience in the virtual world, THQ may have something to build on in the casual gaming space.

FORBES: Jimmy Buffett Wants You to Have a Cheeseburger in His Virtual Paradise

Australian start-up Virtual Gaming Worlds is nearing the home stretch in development of a free-to-play MMO called Chumba World.

FORBES: 'Chumba World' Lets Social Gambling Enthusiasts Build Virtual Casinos For Real-World Income