TWIG #309: EA’s AI problems, Monopoly GO’s decline, and Pokémon Pocket’s success
Nov 22, 2024
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As World of Warcraft celebrates its 20th birthday, the discussion reveals the underlying issues behind EA's troubled AI presentation. There's a spirited defense of Monopoly GO's new TV campaign, highlighting creative marketing strategies. The success of Pokémon TCG Pocket takes center stage, showcasing its appeal in the gaming market. The podcast also explores the challenges of collectible card game monetization and the rising concerns about loot boxes, while reflecting on recent acquisitions and the evolving industry landscape.
EA's recent AI strategy aims to alleviate developer concerns about job security while potentially overshadowing creative talent within the studio.
The upcoming Game Awards nominations spark debate over the inclusion of DLCs and remakes, questioning their criteria for excellence in gaming.
Pokémon TCG Pocket's impressive $100 million revenue in 17 days highlights regional differences in player engagement and effective monetization strategies.
Deep dives
AI in Game Development
The discussion highlights EA's approach to integrating AI in game development, emphasizing a separate initiative that aims to relieve concerns among studio developers about job security. This separation is intended to foster innovation without threatening existing creative roles within studios, as exemplified by the appointment of an AI gaming czar. The choice of messenger for this initiative has drawn criticism, as hiring someone without substantial gaming experience may undermine the credibility of AI's potential in enhancing game development. There are contrasting views on whether this approach could overshadow the unique creative talent within EA and affect morale among developers.
Game Industry Awards Season
The announcement of nominations for the upcoming Game Awards stirred conversations about the inclusion of DLCs and remakes, sparking debate among industry professionals regarding their eligibility for Game of the Year. The nominees included notable titles like Elden Ring and Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, which have faced scrutiny over their performance and market reception. The awards are seen as a reflection of creativity in gaming, but with limited new releases, the inclusion of previously released content raises questions about the criteria for judging excellence. The ongoing discourse emphasizes a need for awards to balance creativity alongside commercial viability.
Funding for Innovative Startups
A newly funded startup has emerged, tasked with developing a third-person cooperative RPG shooter themed around suburban invasions, showcasing a different approach to game development. The team has successfully created a compelling prototype before securing $19 million in funding, highlighting the importance of demonstrating potential before seeking investment. By adopting a lean structure with a small team, this startup aims to deliver innovative gameplay and maintain flexibility in development, contrasting with the traditional models often employed by AAA studios. This project represents a positive shift in the industry towards smaller, more efficient teams that can foster creativity and agility.
Pokémon Trading Card Game Success
The Pokémon Trading Card Game has experienced remarkable success shortly after launch, generating over $100 million in revenue within the first 17 days. Analyzing regional performance shows that while U.S. downloads began strong, Japan has maintained consistent interest, reflecting differences in player engagement and monetization strategies. Notably, revenue per download has been exceptionally high in Japan, driving overall earnings substantially higher than other Pokémon titles. This success demonstrates the importance of a solid monetization strategy along with effective user retention tactics within the gaming market.
Monopoly Go Marketing Campaign
The launch of Scopely's Monopoly Go is supported by a high-profile marketing campaign featuring celebrities like Will Ferrell and Jason Momoa, aimed at boosting player engagement through humor and recognizable personalities. This extensive advertising effort includes a series of original videos tailored for multiple platforms, intending to create a long-lasting presence in the minds of potential players. However, skepticism remains about the effectiveness of such campaigns, particularly if they lead to cost inefficiencies in acquiring new users. Success metrics will be closely monitored to assess the impact of these celebrity-driven campaigns on user retention and revenue generation.
As Kress’ World of Warcraft account turns 20, we blow out the candles and reflect on a surprising reason behind EA’s disastrous AI investor presentation. Jen delivers a valiant defense of Monopoly Go’s new TV campaign, while Phil reviews the early returns of Pokémon TCG Pocket. Big in Japan, as they say? The group wraps up with what might be the year’s final Embracer hazing session, absolving themselves of any remaining crimes.
chapters:
01:19 Birthday Wishes for WoW and Half-Life 2
04:48 EA Tries to Soothe AI Worries
10:03 Game Industry Awards and Nominations
14:47 AAA Devs and Startups
19:04 PlayVentures' New Gaming Fund
21:24 Miniclip Acquires EasyBrain
28:32 X Rioters and Supervive
31:15 Capybara Go and Archero 2
32:02 Pokemon TCG Pocket Success
38:47 Marvel Snap and Sinister Loot Boxes
41:15 New Monopoly Go Campaign
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