Free to play has undoubtedly transformed the industry, apparently to the point where the 800-pound gorillas of video games are making it a priority on their upcoming machines. The first incursions by microtransactions into AAA games have already been made with the advent of Dead Space 3’s crafting system and Forza Horizon’s cars. However, since those are $60 games, it would be nice for prices to match.
The Evolution of Free-to-Play Models
The free-to-play model has evolved significantly over the years. Initially, it was primarily seen in mobile games and smaller PC titles. However, its success in generating revenue through microtransactions has caught the attention of major game developers and console manufacturers. This shift is evident in the way AAA games are now incorporating microtransactions and in-game purchases. For instance, Dead Space 3 introduced a crafting system that allowed players to buy resources with real money, while Forza Horizon offered a variety of cars that could be purchased through microtransactions.
These examples highlight a growing trend where even full-priced games are adopting free-to-play elements. This hybrid model allows developers to continue generating revenue long after the initial purchase, but it also raises questions about the overall cost to the consumer. Players who have already paid $60 for a game may feel frustrated when additional content requires further spending.
Next-Gen Consoles and Free-to-Play Integration
“The next-gen consoles are going to be fully embracing the free-to-play and these IAP-type business models,” according to Epic’s Mark Rein. “So in case you don’t know that I’m putting that out there. Sony and Microsoft are both going heavily in that area.”
This statement underscores a significant shift in the gaming industry. Both Sony and Microsoft are not just acknowledging the success of free-to-play models but are actively integrating them into their next-generation consoles. This integration is expected to go beyond just offering free-to-play games. It will likely involve a comprehensive overhaul of the user interface and overall user experience to make these models more accessible and appealing.
“I think what you’re going to see the new consoles do is a better job of making it easier. I think the real big thing that the consoles can do is improve their interfaces. They can improve the Xbox Live-type experience. They can improve their media center capabilities. But that’s only going to make them also better platforms for having your games. Your games will just come down from the cloud, you’ll be able to go to any Xbox, sign in, and boom, you’ll be able to play your game.”
This vision of the future includes seamless cloud integration, where games and progress are stored online, allowing players to access their games from any console. This would not only enhance the convenience for players but also make it easier for developers to implement and manage free-to-play models. Improved interfaces and media center capabilities will further enrich the gaming experience, making it more immersive and user-friendly.
Moreover, the adoption of free-to-play models by major consoles could lead to a more diverse range of games being available. Smaller developers who may not have the resources to create full-priced AAA titles could find a viable platform for their games, leading to increased innovation and variety in the gaming market.
The free-to-play model is set to become a cornerstone of the gaming industry, driven by its success in generating revenue and its growing acceptance among major developers and console manufacturers. As next-gen consoles embrace this model, we can expect significant improvements in user experience, accessibility, and the overall diversity of available games. While this shift may raise concerns about the cost to consumers, it also promises to bring new opportunities and innovations to the world of gaming.
Source Joystiq
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