So, after a few generations of gaming that seemed to confirm that, in the console space, there would always be a dominant winner, this generation has throw up a very different perspective, with a very geographic, demographic and genre fragmented marketplace.
The got me wondering what kind of console or versions of a console would stand a chance of seeing the kind of global dominance the PS2 had. My thinking is currently that a single console could do it coupled with multiple service / peripheral models.
The console would have say 10GB onboard storage vs HDD as basic, have WiFi, support 1080p (I think to keep costs down it would need to be a decent jump above CPU/GPU of Ps3/360 but not too huge a jump - say 8 to 10 times performance). It would also have Blu-Ray. It would have an HDD bay as standard ready for use.
The console would also come in three models (from cheapest to most expensive). The cheapest would include a gamepad only, the next a gamepad/headset and the third a gamepad/headset and motion control device.
Additional configurations would include an HDD as well - say 250, 350 and 500 GB to begin.
Standard headset support plus an official model easy to buy to add to entry model.
Motion control pack easy to buy to add to entry model.
The service model I believe needed to have a chance at global dominance would be:
Basic - free online,game store, access to online content not associated with games (Facebook, etc. plus regional content such as BBC iPlayer in UK for example or Netflix in US), with in-game chat supported and custom sourbdtacks. (Basically PSN)
Plus - paid for service which is the same as Basic but adds cross-game chat, cloud saves and enhanced on-line services (Basically Live with elements of PSN Plus).
Elite - same as Plus but adds DLC discounts/loyalty model like PSN Plus, guaranteed Beta access, etc.
The idea would be the basic console would support emerging markets and markets without stable online. Basic online gaming is supported and attractive enough for those regions as no fee is needed. The non-HDD model would give enough storage for basic gaming needs. Entertainment hub would be more physical (via the Blu-Ray) orientated.
Upgrading the entry model with an HDD would easily allow for transition of console for entertainment hub uses. The lack of proprietary HDD would enable local markets to easily support the device as well with cheap drives.
For the Western market the Plus service would ideally be the norm to get the best online experience and people would either start with the entry model and add an HDD later or jump straight to the HDD model for full online/entertainment hub support.
The Elite tier would give the most faithful additional serivces/discounts in a loyalty model similar to PSN Plus today.
The various peripheral/console pack options would enable someone to stick to just a gamepad up to all options including motion control.
So what do you think? Will the market remain fragmented? Or is there a combination of console/services that could please the majority and give someone a shot at dominance again? What would you suggest to achieve this?
My thinking (skip this if you want BTW) is based on the following assumptions/preconceptions I have of the market based on this gen:
Paid for online is only fully embraced in a few regions - I belive this has hindered the 360 outside US/UK in particulary and empowered the PS3 in those regions. Therefore there has to a basic, free online to have a chance to dominate globally.
Paid for online is fine in US/UK but needs at least Live level of capabilities and the market is willing to pay for it. Upshot, offer bare bones were you can't chage and take money where you can.
Outside US/UK and a few similar territories the PS3 HDD approach is prefered to proprietary 360 approach. Non-proprietary is better.
Physical media is needed for one more region, particularly in emerging markets. Put in a Blu-Ray can cover all bases.
By allowing customers choice with HDD (including not having it) everyone can be supported from those just wanting space to store some saved games to those wanting to store a ton of content on the console.
You don't need a headset in the box at the lowest price point.
You don't need motion controls out of the box either.
You do need a gamepad out of the box.
Try to be reasonable... its easier than you think...
