This guy really isn't qualified to be making statements about the economics of the games industry. Yes, he is a member of the industry, but he is foremost a game developer. History tells a different story than what he is saying. The music industry tried DRM on iTunes, and it worked okay. Got rid of the DRM and iTunes had explosive growth. Conventional wisdom is purely that: conventional. There are innovative business models that can be developed to create an enviroment where content providers and consumers all get a fair deal. Why not put some balance into the equation:
Publishers: Provide good content at a fair price. Make content that has replay value and revolves around gameplay mechanics, not gimmicks that wear quickly. People hold onto games they still play. I bought Black Ops 2 off a friend for $30. Activision made no money off of this. I then downloaded $30 worth of DLC. My friend got $30 for a game he no longer plays, I'm happy with the DLC, and Activsion made $30 (minus PSN's cut). Quite frankly, I don't see $60 of value in most new releases. I'll wait a few weeks or months and pick it up for $30 or $40 instead. After I'm done with it I sell it on Amazon for $15-20 and recoup some of the expense. This is the way it is for me. period. If publishers want to reach consumers like me, who legally purchase both new and used games, capture me with good DLC.
Consumers: If you like a game, support them. DLC is likely the most benefitial route.
Cliffy B: If you somehow read this: Stop hating on consumers for doing what makes sense for them. If you want to change the way we think about this topic offer something more than criticism. The problem for publishers is managing income and expenses, not comsumers. I manage my finances just fine. The numbers work. If your publisher is having problems with finances, I suggest they figure out a way to make it work for them without attacking their consumer base. Take Two, Nintendo, and plenty of high quality indies are with me on this. Stop making gimmicky games and give us compelling new gameplay that keeps ou interest for more than a month or so. If you do that I will keep your game in my collection. I will purchase DLC. I will help fund what you and I both want: great games
BTW: Stay clear of GameStop's unfair commisions. Amazon is way better. I sell used games on there all the time and get paid 30-75% more than GameStop offers for trade-ins. I would recommend the same if you are looking to buy games new or used as well.
And before anyone points out the obvious, no, I am not in the games industry. I am merely pointing out the obvious:
1. Used games are a reality for the near future (5-10 years).
2. Consumers of any business should be treated with respect as we can leave for a competitor at anytime
3. It's unprofessional to whine about the difficulties of being at the head of a major studio. Be more like Take Two's CEO, Nintendo, Guerilla Games, Sony, Indies, and everyone else managing to make it work for themselves and for consumers.
