In 2011, mobile and digital content accounted for 36 percent of the 11.3 billion euros spent on games in Europe, reports media analyst firm IHS Screen Digest. That number is expected to hit 44 percent this year and rise to over half of all shares by 2016.
For traditional game distributors, this growth begs the question of how games like “Call of Duty” can stand up to popular Zynga titles on Facebook.
At Europe’s biggest gaming fair, Gamescom, the traditional makers are considering the free-to-play model. Heralded by mobile developers, the model allows customers to try out games before putting money down while also allowing developers to test what gamers do and do not like before building out the whole game.
“We like this new model,” says Frank Gibeau of Electronic Arts. “It’s a lot more like a life operation that you continuously build. It’s a lot more like a service.”
“Although the gaming industry is usually fairly resilient in economic downturns, the free-to-play and online segment is actually helping it grow through the tough times,” Reuters adds.
However, there were two notable absences from the gaming fair. Of the top three console makers, only Sony — the maker of the PlayStation — has been present at Gamescom. “Microsoft and Nintendo, makers of the Xbox and Wii consoles, respectively, have decided to showcase their products later this year,” the article states.
Mobile gaming presents an extra challenge to console makers beyond just competitive, affordable games. “At the moment, it’s not only what you play that is important, but also where you play,” notes Jim Ryan, chief executive at Sony Computer Entertainment Europe.
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