Huawei AppGallery
AppGallery is Huawei’s app store for Android and HarmonyOS, offering a purchasing path for in-game items through bank cards, e-wallets, and mobile payments. Unlike many rivals, AppGallery supports direct billing options that can simplify how users pay for digital content.
In Russia, however, functionality is limited by payment-system restrictions. Interconnections with Visa and MasterCard are not available, and Mir is not supported. This makes certain payment options unusable for many users in that region.
Russian users can still use e-wallets such as Qiwi or pay for in-game purchases from their mobile balance. The linking process between wallet and device is straightforward and fast, making it convenient to complete transactions on the go.
Once an account is registered in AppGallery, users should navigate to the “Me” area, open the profile tab, and select the preferred option under the “Payments and purchases” section. To link a Qiwi wallet, choose eWallet, while for payment by phone pick “Mobile payment.”
In-app purchases such as crystals or gold are only available for games downloaded from AppGallery. If a game was previously installed via the Google Play Store, it must be removed and re-downloaded from AppGallery to enable purchases tied to that title.
Examples include in-game donations for titles like Homescapes, Gardenscapes, PUBG Mobile, and other projects, which can be supported with a single tap.
There are downsides, though. AppGallery displays ads each time the storefront opens, and many major titles such as Genshin Impact and Call of Duty are not offered directly on Huawei’s platform, which can limit some options for users in certain regions.
Paying with a foreign card on Google Play
Google suspended paid services in Russia on March 10, 2022, yet residents outside Russia can still access Google Play for purchases, including in-game content, with foreign-issued cards. In Russia, some users may rely on cards issued by foreign banks or trusted associates to access these services.
In addition to a foreign bank card, a VPN is often required because Google Play payments are typically restricted to the country of the card issuer. This approach can invite higher costs due to SWIFT transfer fees when moving funds from a Russian card to a foreign one. It’s wise to review terms with both banks before proceeding. Some users explore solutions from banks in Central Asia that allow remote account setup to simplify the process.
Google Play Gift Cards
Purchasing Google Play gift cards often involves using VPN services and setting the card issuer country in the account settings. Gift cards can be found on various marketplaces, including commonly used online platforms.
Price differences can be notable. A £5 card may be listed around 800 rubles, while the Central Bank rate could be closer to 370 rubles. Some regional cards, such as Turkish ones, may show higher apparent value, effectively doubling the cost in practice. The primary advantage remains the ease of use and the absence of a need for a foreign bank card.
Donation services for games
One approach to replenishing an in-game account is through third-party services and merchants who offer donations. This requires sharing login credentials for the Google account and potentially other linked services, such as a personal page on a social network, to complete the transaction.
Each merchant operates on its own terms, earning profits either from exchange-rate differences at the moment of transfer or by adding a service fee. For example, a 100 ruble donation might cost 130–150 rubles from the user.
Such services carry risks and should be used with caution, particularly when transferring accounts. If merchants are involved, consider creating a new game account that does not tie back to personal data, and review seller feedback before proceeding with any transfer of money or account data.