Keep in mind that the game card revenue is getting shared to some degree with the retailer. So NCSoft is losing locked in revolving subscription revenue when veteran players switch to buying game cards. So a temp power is not really inappropriate as a perk. If the power were permanent, then it would have to be a value add, at added cost, just like the Special edition DVD (slide sprint power) or the wedding pack.
While the idea of walking into target and buying in-game powers and costume pieces has some appeal, NCSoft would have to offset the retailers markup. That would mean that they would have to charge more like 25$ or more per one month play card to break even. At that level it makes more sense for them to give away bonus powers to members who are on autopay.
As and alternate they could roll out something like NC Coins in CoX and keep all of that 10$ difference for themselves, to put back into game development. I know which gets my vote.
That is not to say the idea of promoting the game card sales by inflating the initial uptake is without merit, it just may cost NCSoft more than some of you anticipated. And you don't grow a church by preaching to the choir, you do it by converting new followers.
