We love it when analysts pop out the woodwork and spout absolute nonsense and a statement from KeyBanc Capital Markets analyst Evan Wingren on Star Wars Battlefront 2 is a classic.
In response to EA’s share price drop following last week’s microtransaction and the temporary progression system climbdown by EA, Wingren had this gem of wisdom which was shared.
Gamers aren’t overcharged, they’re undercharged (and we’re gamers) … This saga has been a perfect storm for overreaction as it involves EA, Star Wars, reddit, and certain purist gaming journalists/outlets who dislike MTX.
This genius went on to crunch some numbers on play time stating that if a gamer played 2.5 hours per day, spent $60 for the game, and $20 per month on microtransaction, that would work out at 40 cents per hour of entertainment. He insists it’s one of the “cheapest forms of entertainment” and publishers should “probably “raise prices”.
What Wingren fails to mention that gamers are unlikely to play 2.5 hours of the game every day for a year. They play other games, some have limited time due to real life commitments, or some will want to play the single-player campaign and dabble in the multiplayer from time to time.
Gamers do get great value for money on some games, there’s no doubt about that. Think of The Witcher 3, Path of Exile which is free to play, or even the Diablo franchise. Even I still play the original Red Alert from time to time.
The point is, publishers are pushing the boundaries of what’s acceptable when it comes to what content is locked away and how that can affect the gameplay itself. Star Wars Battlefront 2 is a prime example of taking the microtransaction model too far.
While Analysts have job to do, their comments are rarely in the best interest of the consumer.
Published: Nov 20, 2017 06:40 pm