Bungie’s official reveal of its monolithic project also comes with a few technical caveats. The game is hitting all current consoles (PC is unconfirmed) and has a planned life cycle of 10 years, so will presumably be transitioning to the next generation of consoles while maintaining cross-platform play. But considering Activision’s history, it’s not that surprising to learn the game can only be played with a permanent connection to the Internet.
This also seems to tie in with reports that Microsoft’s next console will need an online connection to function as well. “It’s a persistent, shared and connected world, so you will need to be connected [to the internet] to play Destiny,” according to Bungie COO Pete Parsons.
“We’re absolutely going to be on this generation of consoles. When we came to the big collaboration with Activision we said we’re going to tell these adventures over a 10-year period, so we need to make sure we’re prepared for the future, both in upcoming generations and multiple platforms and devices themselves.”
Technical Requirements and Implications
The requirement for a constant internet connection has sparked a variety of discussions among gamers and industry experts. On one hand, the always-online model allows Bungie to create a dynamic and ever-evolving game world. This means that players can expect regular updates, live events, and a more immersive experience. However, it also raises concerns about accessibility and the potential for server issues. For instance, players with unreliable internet connections may find it challenging to enjoy the game fully. Additionally, server downtimes or maintenance could temporarily lock players out of the game, which can be frustrating.
Moreover, the decision to require an internet connection aligns with a broader industry trend towards online gaming. Many modern games, such as “Fortnite” and “Apex Legends,” also require a constant internet connection, reflecting a shift in how games are developed and consumed. This trend is likely to continue as developers seek to create more interactive and community-driven experiences.
Future-Proofing and Cross-Platform Play
Bungie’s commitment to a 10-year life cycle for the game is ambitious and indicates a long-term vision. This approach necessitates future-proofing the game to ensure it remains relevant and engaging over the years. One way Bungie plans to achieve this is through cross-platform play, allowing players on different consoles to interact and play together. This feature not only broadens the game’s community but also enhances its longevity by ensuring a larger, more active player base.
Cross-platform play is becoming increasingly popular in the gaming industry. Games like “Rocket League” and “Minecraft” have successfully implemented this feature, breaking down barriers between different gaming ecosystems. By embracing cross-platform play, Bungie is positioning its game to be more inclusive and accessible, which could be a significant factor in its long-term success.
Additionally, the transition to next-generation consoles is a crucial aspect of Bungie’s strategy. As new consoles are released, the game will need to adapt to take advantage of improved hardware capabilities. This could mean better graphics, faster load times, and more complex game mechanics. Bungie’s forward-thinking approach ensures that the game will continue to evolve and improve, keeping players engaged for years to come.
In conclusion, Bungie’s new project is shaping up to be a significant milestone in the gaming industry. With its always-online requirement, cross-platform play, and a 10-year life cycle, the game promises to offer a unique and evolving experience. While there are challenges to this approach, such as the need for a reliable internet connection, the potential benefits are substantial. By staying ahead of industry trends and focusing on long-term engagement, Bungie is setting the stage for a game that could redefine online gaming.
Source Eurogamer
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