Gabe Newell talks about potential fan funded games
Posted: Tue Sep 22, 2009 3:28 pmhttp://www.totalvideogames.com/Left-4-D ... 14391.html
It's a pretty interesting idea. Basically, Newell proposes that developers can present some ideas and demo's of their games and get a bunch of people to invest a small amount of money to support the idea. In return (depending on how much was invested) you could get a free copy of the game and maybe even some money in return. Newell believes that more "high budget risks" could be taken with this business model.
I don't think it would ever become the "norm" because so many people base their game purchases on reviews and word of mouth, plus if the games is canceled you basically throw away your money. I can't really see any original ideas being supported either, unless from an already established developer. That being said, if there's a game I know I'm going to buy, I'd definitely put down a $40 investment if it means I get the game at launch for cheaper than full retail. But I really only see this working for game sequels, if at all.
And of course, I would invest $60 for Shenmue III. The way I see it is I'd be pre-ordering it a few years in advance.
It's a pretty interesting idea. Basically, Newell proposes that developers can present some ideas and demo's of their games and get a bunch of people to invest a small amount of money to support the idea. In return (depending on how much was invested) you could get a free copy of the game and maybe even some money in return. Newell believes that more "high budget risks" could be taken with this business model.
I don't think it would ever become the "norm" because so many people base their game purchases on reviews and word of mouth, plus if the games is canceled you basically throw away your money. I can't really see any original ideas being supported either, unless from an already established developer. That being said, if there's a game I know I'm going to buy, I'd definitely put down a $40 investment if it means I get the game at launch for cheaper than full retail. But I really only see this working for game sequels, if at all.
And of course, I would invest $60 for Shenmue III. The way I see it is I'd be pre-ordering it a few years in advance.
