The popularity of HBO’s Game of Thrones series can’t be denied. The show has been one of the network’s most popular programs, and its popularity has also earned it a much more dubious distinction. The fact that the only way to watch the program is as an HBO subscriber or to buy the DVD once the season is over has led many to pirate episodes.
The Rise of Game of Thrones Piracy
The second season of Game of Thrones is on its way to being the most pirated TV show of 2012, according to analytics firm Big Champagne. Episodes of the show have been downloaded over 25 million times from public torrent trackers since the series’ second season began in April. The peak downloads occurred after the April 30 episode, with more than 2.5 million downloads in a single day.
Last year, the series was the second most pirated show, right behind Dexter. This trend highlights a significant issue in the digital age: the challenge of controlling content distribution. While HBO’s strategy to make the show exclusive to subscribers was intended to drive up subscriptions, it inadvertently fueled a surge in illegal downloads.
Implications of Piracy on the Entertainment Industry
Piracy has far-reaching implications for the entertainment industry. For one, it affects the revenue streams of content creators and distributors. When millions of viewers choose to download episodes illegally, it translates to substantial financial losses. This can impact the budget for future seasons, the quality of production, and even the livelihoods of those involved in the making of the show.
Moreover, piracy can affect the viewing experience. Pirated copies often come with poor video and audio quality, and they may include malware or other security risks. Despite these drawbacks, the high demand for Game of Thrones has led many to take these risks rather than wait for legal viewing options.
If you are an HBO subscriber, you can watch the show online via HBO Go. HBO’s plan to make the show subscriber-only appears to have come back to bite it, at least in this instance. The exclusivity model, while beneficial in some respects, has shown its limitations in the face of modern digital consumption habits.
Possible Solutions and Future Directions
To combat piracy, networks and streaming services need to rethink their distribution strategies. One potential solution is to make content more accessible globally. Often, piracy spikes in regions where the show is not readily available. By offering simultaneous global releases and affordable streaming options, networks can reduce the incentive to pirate.
Another approach is to enhance the value proposition for subscribers. Exclusive behind-the-scenes content, interactive features, and early access to episodes can make legal subscriptions more attractive. Additionally, partnerships with other streaming platforms can help reach a broader audience without compromising exclusivity.
The success of Game of Thrones has also sparked discussions about the future of television. As more viewers turn to streaming services and on-demand content, traditional cable subscriptions are declining. This shift necessitates a new business model that prioritizes accessibility, affordability, and user experience.
In conclusion, while the popularity of Game of Thrones is undeniable, it has also highlighted significant challenges in content distribution and piracy. By understanding these issues and exploring innovative solutions, the entertainment industry can adapt to the evolving digital landscape and continue to thrive.
via Forbes
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