user1010101

Is There a Need for Game Publishers Any More?

I have read many poeple make these bearish comments on the video game industry and think you guys have it wrong. Your lost in games from the new mellinium rather than looking at the blockbusters that have come out in the last few years. Games such as rockband, guitar hero, all the wii games are clear examples of how consumers demands for games have changed. People and especially kids no longer want to sit in front of there TV with a "controller" and hit a couple of buttons - there is more to games. The whole iPod game thing is simply an expansion - no one makes the decision to by an iPod for its gaming flare over a wii/PS3/Xbox/DS etc.

There is definately a trend towards online distribution but this is way into the future. Companies are simply realizing that a subscription based revenue model ensures profitability and prevents pirating - but this has been going on in the software space for a long time now (they are just late to the game).

The fact remains, it will be a long time before any of these bearish thesis come out. By that time, the next big blockbuster will be out and the market will pick up all over again.