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Ultimately, what is being sold in total is the cost of operating the game, paying the staff, and continuing to develop the game. Some games do this via a flat monthly fee (WoW, Everquest, etc.), some do it via advertising (Neopets), and some do it through perks or credits (IRE, Roma Victor).
The different models spread the cost amongst their customers differently, and some people prefer one model to another. The flat fee system results in everyone paying the same amount, but clearly people do not benefit equally nor do they use resources equally. Some people play 22 hours a day and some pay 22 hours a month. Both types pay the same $15. The advertising system results in people paying nothing, and in exchange they view advertisements (whether they are just a banner, or actual ads that have to be viewed periodically, or whatnot). The pay-for-perks system generally allows some people to pay a lot more than others - often people with less time to play the game. People can determine their own level of financial and time investment.
There are pros and cons to all models. The good thing is, there are many games of each type which gives players a lot of choices.
Choice is a good thing for the consumer.
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