Comments on: There is another way

By: Bruce

Bruce — Tue, 11 Dec 2007 10:58:00 +0000

Thanks for the comments.
There is no reason for this not to happen, the hardware requirements are so minimal that they could be built into every TV for hardly any extra cost. Broadband is heading to universality in most of the developed world. And MMOs are giving us a very good understanding of the mechanics.
The removal of publishing and high street retail bring immense savings. A new release could be available instantly to tens, even hundreds of millions of people simultaneously all over the world.
Charging could be by monthly subscription or pay per play or a number of other models. It will certainly be a lot cheaper for the gamer and offer far more choice and variety in their gameplay.

By: Brendan

Brendan — Tue, 04 Dec 2007 14:51:28 +0000

It seems to me that Microsoft is hedging their bets on this one, considering you can now purchase original xbox titles though live along with the arcade titles. Nintendo is in a similar position but the Wii is going to have issues really soon unless they add hard drive support. Sony could make it happen but they would be playing catch-up again.

By: JC Barnett

JC Barnett — Tue, 04 Dec 2007 12:53:04 +0000

Considering the manufacturers get their money from production and licensing I doubt any of them are in a hurry to go this route. I think a fourth, outside company will have to force it on the industry. Then when all the business gets directed to this, let’s call it, iGames service, the Big Three will neccesarily change their business model.

By: Tony Albrecht

Tony Albrecht — Tue, 04 Dec 2007 06:40:43 +0000

An advantage that you missed was that it also stops resale and renting of games (both of which *could* be considered to be piracy as far as the developer is concerned).