EA to offer dowloadable games

[the_technocrat]

<p>EA will start a new chapter in its product offerings with Battlefield Heroes, a free, downloadable PC game. While details aren't yet widely available, the game will not cost anything to play the "full" version, but improvements to the game will come at a cost. Think: "Free game, pay for the expansion packs"</p>
<p>via <a href="http://mashable.com/2008/01/21/ea-games-online-distribution/">Mashable</a></p>

[CB]

So they're going to the old shareware games model that we got used to in the 80's: The first part of the game is free, you only have to pay if you want to play the whole thing.

This is nothing new, it's a proven model with a new name.

[Butters]

I don't see it as a shareware model as more of a "pay for enhancements" and better user experience.

If you want a rocket launcher, that would be $5.00, of your "real" money (not the counter-strike $)

If you want to pimp your tank, that would be "real" $15.00.



Nickel and Diming us for the enhancements as the "free" version makes players struggle through the game with basic weapons and equipment.

[primesuspect]

From what I've seen - the game is completely free - the "full experience" as it were.. however, if you want to skin your character or perform other customizations, that will cost.

[Thrax]

Microtransactions can die.

[CB]

Icrontic should start charging a nickel a month for the 'dark' color scheme.

[shwaip]

Icrontic should start charging a nickel a month for the 'dark' color scheme.


and a penny for every use of "quick reply"

[Buddy J]

I'll bring it up with Keebs and Prime. You guys don't realize the cool things we could do if we had more cash.

[the_technocrat]

I can imagine a game like TF2 where it would be $2 to upload your own skin of a character. Even something as stupid as uploading your own pic to map to the character's face - plenty of people who would do it. Same for a game like the Sims, etc. I wouldn't. but I'm sure there are many who would...

[QCH2002]

...plenty of people who would do it. Same for a game like the Sims, etc. I wouldn't. but I'm sure there are many who would...Yeah right, but you'd upload a picture of Prime or Keebler... You've always had a thing with them. ;D

[primesuspect]

<3 tt