Eric Kress, Jen Donahoe, Philip Black, and Laura Taranto discuss the implications of the Epic v. Apple case, the freedom for developers to push iOS players into web shops, and the potential impact on the gaming industry. They also dive into the success of Palworld, explore the decline of Embark, and give advice on transitioning to PC and console gaming in the post-IDFA era.
Developers are now free to push US iOS players into web shops due to the Epic v. Apple case.
Power World is a highly anticipated game that combines elements of survival crafting, squad RPG, and meta collector genres.
The gaming industry is expected to face challenges and turbulence in the years 2024 and 2025 but may emerge stronger and more sustainable.
Deep dives
Power World: A Unique Combination of Genres
Power World is a highly anticipated game that combines elements of survival crafting, squad RPG, and meta collector genres. Developed by a Japanese studio based in Tokyo, the game has already sold over six million copies in early access and has garnered a lot of attention. Despite being described as 'Pokémon with guns,' Power World offers much more than that. Players can collect creatures that not only battle but also help with resource gathering, base-building, and economy management. With its innovative gameplay mechanics and impressive sales numbers, Power World has the potential for genre-level innovation.
The Journey of Power World's Development
The development of Power World has been an exciting and challenging journey. Led by a dedicated founder, the Japanese studio, with around 50 employees, worked tirelessly to bring the game to life. There were obstacles along the way, such as switching game engines from Unity to Unreal, which required copying files onto countless flash drives. Despite the setbacks, their perseverance paid off, and the game's success is a testament to their hard work and commitment to creating an exceptional gaming experience.
The Impact and Potential of Power World
Power World's unique combination of genres and impressive sales numbers have generated significant excitement within the gaming community. With over six million copies sold and an avid player base, the game has already made a mark in the industry. Its innovative gameplay mechanics and the potential for genre-level innovation make Power World a game to watch. As the development studio continues to refine and expand upon their creation, the future looks bright for the world of Power World.
Changes to Apple's iOS in-app purchase rules
Apple has made changes to its iOS in-app purchase rules, allowing developers to direct iOS players to make in-game purchases using a webshop rather than within the app. However, there are certain caveats to this change, such as not being able to discourage users from purchasing in-app purchases and not opening a web view within the app. The webshop should also not resemble Apple's interface, and the link to the webshop cannot be displayed multiple times or within pop-ups. Apple will still charge a commission on digital purchases initiated within seven days from the link out, except for those part of the small business program or auto-renewing subscriptions.
Expectations of ongoing challenges in the gaming industry
The gaming industry is expected to face continued challenges and turbulence in the years 2024 and 2025. Factors contributing to this include high interest rates, oversaturation of video game stores, cautious investors, and government spending changes after the pandemic. These challenges are predicted to lead to more studio closures, layoffs, and restructuring within the industry. However, many industry professionals believe that after this period of consolidation, the industry will emerge stronger and more sustainable, potentially supported by the emergence of new successful platforms, game genres, or forms of interactive entertainment.
By deciding not to hear the appeal of the Epic v. Apple case, the injection against Apple's anti-steering rules stands. This means that developers are now free to push US iOS players into web shops. But what doest that mean for the industry? And if this conversation doesn’t tickle your toes, the crew talks Palworld. A real Pokemon killer.
The doom and gloom of this episode is brought to you by Eric Kress, Jen Donahoe, Philip Black and Laura Taranto.
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