A few years ago editorials and articles across the globe were outraged at the high price of gaming. People were furious that developers had increased store prices to cover their ever higher production cost and it was falling on the public to pick up the pieces. It’s strange then to think that it is now common place for free gaming in 2011.
On mobile devices, social networking sites and MMO’s the free game is extremely common and developers are looking at loyalty as a way of making money. They now expect a small percentage of players to pitch in some coins for in game items, collectables or personal customisation.
It’s surprising to think that Activision’s biggest roll-out this year was their new Elite offerings that gave people extra ways to enjoy Modern Warfare 3.
Obviously the other big player this year was the increased volume of games being supported with deep and steady downloadable content. This has become a more and more common sales tactic recently and provides us all with extra reasons to pick up and play last month’s big releases. Developers have pulled resources from their new-IP’s and given them the opportunity to add depth to their AAA titles.
On the other hand Steam has become even bigger too over the last 12 months. The online service proves that impulse purchasing is the norm when looking at the reduced pricing schemes. It once again shows that a fancy box does not necessarily sell a game and instead proves gaming is about the experience of the player.
Demos and Trials are common place too on both XBLA and the PSN; with each developer pushing for your attention. These come in all shapes and sizes and give the player enough time get them interested before performing the common curtain call.
Games have of course had a tough year in general but when you look at the quality released then you can see why this is still the most exciting sector of the entertainment industry. Lets hope 2012 continues to bring us blockbusters every month.
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