While exclusive downloadable content can translate into major bucks for some publishers (Xbox 360 exclusive DLC for Grand Theft Auto comes to mind), most developers don t get that sort of blank check.
Instead, it’s all about promotion for their game.
As more and more games fill the WiiWare, Xbox Live and PlayStation Store, it s harder for developers to separate their wares from others, so instead of cash, developers are willing to accept a lot more promotion on those storefronts in exchange for keeping those games exclusive.
From VideoGamer:
The reason is that we’ve got a long relationship with Microsoft’s first party unit. We get on great with them. In exchange for exclusivity we get a lot more promotion. We’ve got a closer deal with them. That’s just how it is. It’s unfortunate. That’s just how we work, [said Team17 studio head Martyn Brown].
While the increased exposure for your game is definitely appreciated, you risk alienating your customer base by looking like you re in cahoots with the storefront, as Team17 is finding with recent backlash directed at their Xbox 360 timed exclusive Alien Breed.
It isn’t the case of here’s some cash in a suitcase. It just doesn’t work like that. It would be nice if it did!
While the increased exposure for your game is definitely appreciated, you risk alienating your customer base by looking like you re in cahoots with the storefront, as Team17 is finding with recent backlash directed at their Xbox 360 timed exclusive Alien Breed.
Would you end up trading placement on multiple storefronts in exchange for some promotion on just one? We will follow up as sales figures for Alien Breed and other timed exclusives come out.
