Anna Daniels
In a genius move, the folks at Rockstar released an online component for Grand Theft Auto 5. Supported by weekly content and bonuses, GTA Online has kept the game alive, thriving, and, most importantly, profitable. By monetizing Grand Theft Auto 5 in this way, Rockstar became one of the first companies to find wild success in the now vogue games as a service model.
Ever notice modern games work a little differently than before? Rather than one-and-done releases, the industry has embraced the strategy of making experiences that never end; updates, seasons, and new modes keep the games going long after launch. EA has thoroughly (perhaps to its detriment) embraced this games as a service model, as has Rockstar. The company hopes lightning will strike twice with Red Dead Online. Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick told investors: “It may not always be an online model, it probably won’t always be a virtual currency model, but there will be some ability to engage in an ongoing basis with our titles after release across the board. That’s a sea change in our business.” And business is booming.
Written by: Looper
