Games formula
There is some debate as to whether innovation and creativity is suffering as game publishers become increasingly unwilling to back any project that lacks a built-in audience.
A glance at the games charts in the UK shows that most of the titles in the top 10 are either sequels or tied to a film.
Many have come from the EA stable, but it makes no apologies for sticking to a successful formula.
“The franchise strategy is good for the company, investors and consumers as this is a hit-driven business,” said Mr Brown.
He explained that EA had honed its franchise strategy, learning with every new version of a game. And he argued it also sat well with investors, who could forecast sales of a hit series.
“More importantly, it is good for the consumer as video games cost a lot of money to make and have a high price at retail,” he said. “If you buy three or four games a year, you don’t want to make a mistake.”
However, he admitted that there was a risk that a franchise could be exploited.
“I’m not going to say that every game is perfect,” admitted Mr Brown. “But if studios don’t deliver a high quality game, there is hell to pay internally.”
Tags: formula