Gone are the days when games were complete upon release. Warner Bros. is embracing the live-service gaming model and intends to apply it to popular franchises such as DC, Harry Potter, and Game of Thrones. CEO David Zaslav revealed this strategy during an investor call on Nov. 8.
Zaslav emphasized that Warner Bros. aims to release new content for its biggest franchises through live service, multiplatform, and free-to-play components. The goal is to enhance engagement and generate higher levels of monetization over longer periods. The company has already developed specific capabilities to achieve this and sees significant potential for increased post-purchase revenue.
However, the live-service game release model has not always been well-received by gamers. Marvel’s Avengers experienced a decline in popularity due to this approach, and Warner Bros.’s own Suicide Squad title faced backlash and subsequent delays after negative feedback on its gameplay earlier this year.
It is worth noting that many of Warner Bros.’s most beloved titles have thrived without any live-service components. Even recent releases like Hogwarts Legacy, which became one of the highest-selling games of the year, achieved success without relying on the live-service model.
Nevertheless, Warner Bros. seems determined to focus heavily on live service for its upcoming titles. The success of this strategy remains to be seen, with the first major test being Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League, set to launch in 2024. Only time will tell if this approach resonates with players and achieves the desired results.
Source: DOTESPORTS
