1. A method for facilitating simulated purchases by virtual representations of participants in computer-based simulations of items outside of the context of computer-based simulations, the method comprising: receiving a simulated payment for an item for purchase, wherein said simulated payment is associated with a virtual representation of a participant in a computer-based simulation, wherein said item is available for purchase outside of the context of said simulation, and wherein said simulated payment is received outside of the context of said simulation; and providing a description of said item to a process of said simulation, wherein said description is provided subsequent to receiving said simulated payment, wherein and said description is provided in association with said virtual representation.