Podcast Summary
Microsoft's leaked Xbox plans and Unity's price change: Microsoft jokingly discussed acquiring Nintendo to prevent leaks, while Unity's price change sparked debate among developers.
During a recent podcast episode, the hosts discussed various topics in the video game industry. One of the topics was Microsoft's leaked plans for future Xbox projects, which Phil Spencer jokingly referred to as wanting to acquire Nintendo to "take care of the leaks." Another topic was Unity's controversial price change for developers, which sparked a heated debate. The hosts also mentioned their upcoming bonus episode about the movies "Her" and "Ex Machina," which explore the theme of AI. Throughout the episode, they shared their thoughts on these topics and provided insights from their perspectives as video game industry insiders.
Unity's new policy sparks backlash from developers: Unity's unexpected install-based pricing model caused controversy and financial burden for developers, particularly smaller studios, leading to widespread anger and potential business sustainability concerns.
Unity's new policy, which involves charging developers based on the number of installs their games have, has caused a significant backlash within the gaming community. This surprise move, which was initially unclear and lacked communication from Unity, felt like a violation of trust and a financial burden for many developers, especially those who have games in development for years. The policy's potential impact on smaller indie and double-A studios, who are already operating on thin financial lines, has raised concerns about the sustainability of their businesses. The uncertainty and potential costs of switching to a different engine have added to the confusion and frustration. The situation has resulted in a communications disaster and widespread anger, with some developers even threatening to leave Unity altogether. Ultimately, this policy change, while financially logical for Unity, risks damaging relationships with its developer community and potentially impacting the future of some games in development.
Unity's New Monetization Model Sparks Controversy: Unity's proposed per-install monetization model raised concerns in the gaming industry for its lack of clarity and potential exploitation, highlighting the importance of transparency in business model changes.
Unity, a popular game engine, has been under controversy since its CEO, John Riccitiello, announced a new monetization model. Instead of a traditional licensing fee, Unity proposed a per-install model, where developers pay a fee for each installation of their games. This new model raised concerns, especially in the free-to-play market, where installs don't necessarily equate to revenue. The announcement was criticized for its lack of clarity and potential exploitation. Unity's move was seen as an attempt to follow Unreal Engine's revenue-sharing model but with a more convoluted approach. The controversy highlights the importance of transparency and understanding in business model changes, especially in the gaming industry. The per-install model's implementation and potential implications for developers and consumers remain to be seen.
Uncertainty surrounding Unity's new business model: Unity's proposed new business model based on installs or plays raises concerns and uncertainty, potentially harming developer relationships and stability, and damaging Unity's reputation.
Unity's proposed new business model for their game engine, which involves charging developers based on the number of installs or plays of their games, raises significant concerns and uncertainty. This approach is different from the traditional revenue sharing model, which is straightforward and based on a percentage of revenue. The proposed model introduces an unknown factor, as installs and plays are out of the developer's control. It also creates a perception of punishing success and instability, which could harm Unity's reputation and relationship with developers. The execution and messaging of this policy have also been criticized for being half-baked and ill-timed, further damaging trust and confidence in Unity. Overall, this new business model, if implemented, could introduce chaos and instability for developers and potentially harm Unity's brand.
Unity's new licensing model and Microsoft's unexpected leak shake up the tech industry: Unity's new licensing model sparked controversy, while Microsoft inadvertently revealed plans for an all-digital Xbox Series X and updates to the Xbox controller in 2028, along with Bethesda's game lineup and potential canceled projects.
The tech industry experienced some significant developments this week, with Unity's controversial decision and Microsoft's unexpected leak. Unity faced backlash for its new licensing model, which could potentially lead to the company's downfall or a more logical solution. Microsoft, on the other hand, inadvertently shared confidential information, revealing plans for an all-digital Xbox Series X, next-gen console in 2028, and updates to the Xbox controller. The leaks also included details about Bethesda's game lineup and potential canceled projects. Overall, these events highlighted the ever-evolving landscape of the tech industry and the potential consequences of major decisions or mistakes.
The future of video game preservation: The shift to digital media for video games raises concerns about preservation and accessibility, with physical collections potentially becoming collectible but uncertain availability in the future, and Xbox's decision to release all games on PC seen as a positive step for preservation but long-term implications uncertain.
The shift to digital media for video games is happening faster than anticipated, but there are concerns about preservation and accessibility in the future. While some argue that physical collections may become collectible like vinyl records, others worry that certain games may not be available in physical format. Xbox's decision to release all games on PC is seen as a positive step for preservation, but the long-term implications are uncertain, especially if the internet infrastructure fails. Ultimately, the value of physical media and its role in preservation remains a topic of debate.
Ongoing discussions about unannounced games and console availability: Controversy surrounds unannounced games like Dishonored 3 and Baldur's Gate 3, with debates over their value and console availability, fueling a perceived console war
There are ongoing discussions about unannounced video games, specifically Dishonored 3 and Baldur's Gate 3, which have generated excitement among gamers. However, there have also been issues regarding game releases on different consoles, with Baldur's Gate 3 initially being unavailable on Xbox due to technical difficulties. The perceived value of these games, as indicated by a leaked Microsoft document, has been a subject of debate, with Baldur's Gate 3 being described as a "second run Stadia PC game" and valued at $5 million. This has sparked controversy among fans, leading to a perceived console war. Despite these challenges, Dishonored 3 is confirmed to be in development, and Baldur's Gate 3 is now available on Xbox. Overall, the gaming industry continues to evolve, with exclusive deals and technical challenges shaping the landscape.
Excitement for new gaming releases: The gaming industry continues to evolve with new technology and transparency, while fans eagerly await upcoming releases like Baldur's Gate 3 and Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth. Old favorites inspire new projects, and controversies are addressed, with a focus on creating engaging experiences for players.
The gaming industry, even with advancements in technology and transparency, still holds a sense of excitement and anticipation for new releases, as evidenced by the buzz around Baldur's Gate 3 and Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth. Old favorites continue to inspire new projects, such as Princess Peach's Showtime and the remake of Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door. Despite the occasional controversy, like the discussion around old emails and documents, the industry remains focused on creating engaging experiences for players. The excitement for these upcoming releases is palpable, and fans are eagerly girding their loins (in some cases, literally) for what's to come. Phil Spencer, head of Xbox, has acknowledged the conversation around the industry's past and emphasized the importance of sharing real plans when they are ready. Overall, the gaming community is looking forward to a future filled with new adventures and exciting announcements.
Positive buzz for unique storytelling in gaming: Despite challenges, the gaming industry continues to innovate and deliver unique storytelling, with some titles generating buzz and others facing disappointments and financial struggles.
The gaming industry has seen a mix of excitement and challenges in 2022. On the positive side, some games like the Mario title mentioned, which features Bowser's perspective and Luigi's off-screen adventures, have generated buzz for their unique storytelling. On the other hand, there have been disappointments such as the underperformance of Immortals of Avium, leading to mass layoffs at EA and other studios. Additionally, companies like Embracer, which have recently acquired multiple game developers, have faced their own financial struggles and have had to make tough decisions like selling or shutting down studios. Despite these challenges, the industry continues to push boundaries and deliver innovative gaming experiences.
The Thriving Video Game Industry Amidst Economic Instability: The video game industry thrives while the economy faces instability, creating a disconnect that's complicated by the complex investment world and potential layoffs.
The current economic climate, which includes layoffs and economic uncertainty, is at odds with the thriving video game industry. Despite an abundance of excellent video games being released, there's a disconnect between the success of the industry and the economic instability. This disconnect is further complicated by the increasing complexity of the investment and stock market, which can seem alien to consumers. The layoffs, while common in big companies, can have detrimental effects on morale, productivity, and reputation. It's a confusing time, with the logic of the real world and the market not always aligning, and the motivations behind business decisions becoming increasingly abstract.
Executives prioritize short-term goals over long-term investments: Executives' focus on short-term goals can lead to cost-cutting at the expense of long-term investments, creating an unsustainable system
Executives in various industries, including gaming, are often incentivized to focus on short-term goals, even if it means making decisions that may harm the company or its employees in the long run. This short-sighted approach can lead to perplexing decisions that seem to go against common sense. For instance, executives might prioritize cost-cutting over long-term investments, even if the former may not increase revenue in the long term. This Wall Street logic, which values the next fiscal year over the next five fiscal years, can create a system that feels perverse and unsustainable. It would be nice if executives could consider the long-term implications of their decisions more often, but the pressure to perform in the short term keeps them focused on the present.
The Osage Murders and the Founding of the FBI: The Osage people, a Native American tribe in Oklahoma, faced injustices despite their newfound wealth from oil. A series of murders of Osage tribe members in the 1920s led to an investigation by the Bureau of Investigation, revealing a vast conspiracy and indicting America for its historical exploitation and injustice towards Native Americans.
"Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Founding of the FBI" is a compelling and infuriating true story about the Osage people, a Native American tribe in Oklahoma, who became the richest people per capita in the world after oil was discovered on their land. However, despite their newfound wealth, they faced numerous injustices as the government found ways to take their money and resources. The book details a series of murders of Osage tribe members in the 1920s and the investigation led by the Bureau of Investigation, which later became the FBI. The investigation uncovered a vast conspiracy, and the book ultimately indicts America for its original sins of injustice and exploitation towards Native Americans. This well-researched and gripping book provides valuable insights into American history and is a must-read for high school students and anyone interested in true crime and American history.
A gripping account of historical murders in Oklahoma: David Gran's 'Killers of the Flower Moon' is a well-written, well-researched book that sheds light on a dark chapter in American history, where a minority group was targeted and persecuted in the 1920s. Gran's use of primary sources and artful storytelling creates an immersive reading experience.
"Killers of the Flower Moon" by David Gran is an essential historical read that sheds light on a dark chapter in American history. The book uncovers the shocking true story of a series of murders in Oklahoma in the 1920s, where a minority group was targeted and persecuted by white people. The book is well-written, well-researched, and absorbing, making it an engaging and worthwhile read. David Gran is a talented writer, and his ability to recreate historical scenes with authenticity sets him apart. His use of primary sources and artful storytelling creates a vivid and immersive reading experience. In contrast to some nonfiction writers who fictionalize events, Gran's quotes and descriptions are taken directly from historical documents. Overall, "Killers of the Flower Moon" is a must-read for anyone interested in American history and true crime. Additionally, David Gran's writing skills were previously showcased in his book "The Wager," which also received critical acclaim.
A Multi-Perspective Account of a Historic Voyage: David Gran's 'Lost Ship of the Stars' brings historical events to life through the discovery of crew members' log books, offering a unique perspective and exploring themes of colonialism, imperialism, and grand missions.
"Lost Ship of the Stars" by David Gran is a riveting non-fiction account of a historic voyage filled with drama, colonialism, and the consequences of actions. The book's unique perspective comes from the discovery of log books from three main crew members, providing a multi-perspective story that brings the characters to life. The narrative goes beyond the events of the voyage and touches upon themes of colonialism, imperialism, and the belief in grand missions. Another recommended non-fiction book with a similar approach is "The Killers of the Flower Moon" by David Grann. Both books effectively tell stories that transcend their events and offer thought-provoking themes. For those interested, a Hulu show based on the book "The Other Black Girl" by Zakiya Dalila Harris is now available, and the book itself is a thrilling read about the suspicious happenings in a white-dominated publishing house, exploring themes of marginalization and science fiction.
Exploring identity, trust, and competition in New York media: This captivating sci-fi novel delves into themes of identity, trust, and competition in the NY media industry, offering a unique perspective through clones and identity swaps.
"The Other Black Girl" by Zakiya Dalila Harris is a captivating science fiction novel that explores themes of identity, trust, and competition in the high-stress world of New York media. The book's focus on this specific industry and its intricacies may make it more enjoyable for those who can relate, but its universal themes make it a thought-provoking read for anyone. The book touches on the idea of clones and identity swaps, leading to interesting social parallels and questions about trust and power. However, it remains lighthearted and primarily focuses on the toxic competition and intercompetition within the industry. Despite the Hulu adaptation changing the ending, the book is still worth reading and discussing with others. Overall, "The Other Black Girl" offers a unique perspective on identity and competition in a high-pressure work environment.
