Outlook Into The Future
Looking ahead into the future, we’re predicting this console generations could potentially be the end of physical gaming; with everything transitioning digital for the PlayStation 5, Microsoft’s fourth installment for the Xbox brand and Nintendo’s next Wii console. We know developers (especially smaller companies) would really like to see this happen, which could potentially hinder more piracy now that all transactions would go directly to them heading forward.
One of the main problems with digital only, is that sadly even in in 2014, every household doesn’t have broadband connectivity. Major cities are starting to rollout free public WiFi for even home use, but the speeds will limit users staying connected to specific online services and download games in timely fashion. It’s very hard to bring broadband to homes outside of major cities across the world, but we’re hoping it’s a possibility in time for next console cycle if we do fully go digital.
The retailer giants are going to do their best to avoid their net revenue dropping from sales in the coming years. We wouldn’t be surprised if one of the major developers used a “BEYONCÉ-like” marketing plot for a AAA title, and make them instantly purchase a new title in the not too distant future. Whether that happens or not remains to be seen, but these companies are going to have to gamble if they at least want to change the face of gaming, for the better.