Nintendo has no intention of stifling free-to-play inside the company’s development culture if new franchises warrant the business model, according to Nintendo president Satoru Iwata. While established franchises won’t be getting the zero price point treatment any time soon, there is plenty of scope to experiment with IPs that have yet to find a fanbase.
“We [as an industry] can now do distribution by digital means as well as micro-transactions, and the ways to obtain money through supporting entertainment have increased.
“I have no intention of denying charged games or the free-to-play model. If we were to talk about if Nintendo were to do that, however, I do not [have] much inclination to do that with Nintendo’s established well-known products, where people trust their interesting-ness.”
Exploring New Avenues
Traditional free-to-play gating models are not something Nintendo is interested in, however. The limit for its big names seems to lie in selling content packs like extra levels. This approach allows Nintendo to maintain the integrity and enjoyment of their flagship titles while still exploring new revenue streams. For instance, in games like “Super Mario Odyssey,” additional content such as new worlds or levels could be offered as paid downloadable content (DLC). This ensures that the core game remains a complete experience, while also providing dedicated fans with more content to enjoy.
“We will not have a proverbial door to full enjoyment that can only be unlocked via payment,” he explained. “However, this is separate from, say, having something where because there are people who want more stages to play in Mario games, we will create new courses for those people and charge for them.”
Balancing Innovation and Tradition
Nintendo’s approach to free-to-play models reflects a careful balance between innovation and tradition. While the company is open to experimenting with new business models for emerging franchises, it remains committed to preserving the quality and trust associated with its established titles. This strategy allows Nintendo to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving industry without alienating its loyal fanbase.
For example, newer franchises like “Splatoon” could potentially explore free-to-play elements, such as cosmetic items or additional game modes, without compromising the core gameplay experience. This would enable Nintendo to attract a broader audience and generate additional revenue, while still delivering a high-quality product.
Moreover, Nintendo’s cautious approach to free-to-play models is also a reflection of its broader philosophy towards game development. The company has always prioritized creating fun, engaging, and memorable experiences for players, and this ethos continues to guide its decisions in the digital age. By carefully selecting which franchises to experiment with, Nintendo ensures that it can innovate without sacrificing the values that have made it a beloved name in the gaming industry.
In conclusion, while Nintendo is open to exploring free-to-play models for new franchises, it remains committed to maintaining the quality and integrity of its established titles. By balancing innovation with tradition, the company can continue to thrive in a competitive industry while staying true to its core values.
Via NeoGAF, Eurogamer
Source Nikkei
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