Part 9/10:
This strategy raises questions about the future of AAA gaming. Should publishers prioritize quality and storytelling, or chase the glittering potential of ongoing monetization? The case of Warner Brothers’ recent decisions suggests a gamble that might not pay off, especially after experiencing the stark contrast between the successes of Hogwarts Legacy and the crashes of recent live service attempts.
Industry observers urge caution, emphasizing that the path to sustainable growth involves understanding the lessons from both success stories and failures. While live service can be incredibly lucrative, it is also notoriously volatile, and an overreliance on it could jeopardize the reputation and financial stability of game publishers.