Free games are just around the corner, courtesy of Windows Live. The PC video game service, which used to require a subscription fee, will no be completely free. In addition, it will get better. Microsoft plans to launch a Window's Live equivalent of its Xbox Live Marketplace, where Xbox 360 gamers get access to demos, games and previews.
Microsoft's Kevin Unangst described the move into free games, "We're going to go and invest in PC gaming in a big way. First we did the retail and the branding and the marketing, then we did advertising, and now you're starting to see the fruits of our technology advances. We've been listening to the industry and saying 'what do you want from us to make the platform better?'"
In short, the move is pretty important because it signals that Microsoft will start investing into PC games with a level of effort closer to their investments in the Xbox 360.
This news comes at the same time that the company announced a platform for user created Xbox games.
Free Games
Windows Live Games Goes Free, PC Gaming More Like Xbox 360
Trend Themes
1. Free-to-play - With Windows Live making PC gaming free, other gaming communities may follow suit and adopt free-to-play models which offer in-game purchases and advertising as a revenue stream.
2. Cross-platform Gameplay - Microsoft's move to unify Xbox and PC gaming offers a golden opportunity for game developers and publishers to create and market games designed for cross-platform gameplay.
3. User-generated Content - As Microsoft announces a new platform for user-created Xbox games, other game publishers may take notice and invest in similar platforms where they can harness the power of their community to create and refine new content.
Industry Implications
1. PC Gaming - With Windows Live's pivot to free gaming, other game publishers in the PC gaming industry could benefit from adopting the free-to-play model and, provided the games are well-designed and fun, see an uptick in user engagement and monetization.
2. Gaming Platforms - Microsoft's investment in PC gaming could usher in an era of cross-platform gaming with a unified marketplace where gamers on different platforms can play together, creating a wealth of opportunities for new and exciting gaming experiences.
3. User-generated Gaming Content - With Microsoft announcing a new platform for user-created Xbox games, other game publishers have the opportunity to invest in similar ventures and harness the power of their community to create and refine new content.