Quote:
Originally Posted by matious
Making games is so unbelievably expensive these days many smaller studio's end up having to close if they're game doesn't sell well.
I can totally understand why developers are trying to fight used game sales, especially with Gamestop being so predominant.
I think they're best bet however is to adopt a steam model or downloadable distribution, which is happening more on PSN, but unfortunately because of Microsofts limitations, isn't as easy on XBL.
I think it will be the primary distribution method come next gen/
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sorry but this is a load of crap on the same line as "p2p killed the music industry".
there's been a significant resurgence of independent developers releasing on the cheap for the last few years now. look at the amount of gaming apps available for any phone. HUGE market and it's starting to cross over into the pc market again, and with digital distribution being built into modern consoles the indie devs are actually provided with more opportunities than they've ever had. you won't necessarily get a Ferrari out of the deal but you can make a living.
the groups fighting the used game sales at Gamestop etc. are the established publishers, they're also the ones who control most of the money and the overall direction of any project that needs venture capital to get moving. it's the same logic that's running most large entertainment studios music, movies, tv, whatever into the ground - don't take a real risk / rehash rehash rehash / new paintjob = new product - aka Capcom. really though, thanks for the 153rd Street Fighter game in a row $60 brand new... really.
the idea that a used sale is a loss for the developer is a fallacy. the consumer who buys used does so because they are not willing to pay new prices; it's either used or pirated - neither provides back to the developer, and only one helps the business that caters to the particular interest.
also The Witcher2 is $35 at gamestop this week picked it up tonight
