Controlling the narrative remains a critical marketing function of any organization. From politics to corporations to video game studios, first impressions are often the most lasting. However, if the initial reactions are false, it is increasingly difficult to correct a mistake. During a recent interview with Game Informer, Naughty Dog Vice-President Neil Druckmann explained how incorrect rumors impacted The Last
Read moreThe history of console exclusives is one of sadness and melancholy. What began as a means of protecting first-party titles has progressed into backroom negotiations between console owners and third-party studios. Mergers and acquisitions also continue to exacerbate the situation. In the end, the video game community suffers as studios pursue exclusivity for corporate gain. While this approach temporarily increases
Read moreFocusing on strenuous tasks for prolonged intervals of time is challenging; therefore, everyone deserves the occasional repose. From the daily grind of the workplace to prolonged extracurricular activities, we all need a break from monotony. The video game solution to lengthy and mundane narrative has been the side quest. Classified as a non-essential part of the game, side quests offer
Read moreFor decades, executives and critics have attempted to define “magic” of Nintendo. While critics mention the company’s fearless embrace of change, former Nintendo of America President Reggie Fils-Aime cited the company’s cross-generational appeal. Although both arguments are valid, the true testament of brand identity is the ability to expand into different product lines. On Monday, Nintendo announced that a Super
Read moreStorytelling in video games remains a challenging endeavor. While a scarce number of studios have attempted to create series of interconnected sagas, most select a path of standalone experiences that employ common elements and threads. Noteworthy examples include Final Fantasy, Legend of Zelda, Assassin’s Creed, Resident Evil, and others. During the Ubisoft Forward presentation, the Far Cry 6 news provided
Read morePerhaps no other video game company generates excitement quite like Nintendo. From routine Nintendo Direct presentations to the annual E3 celebrations, Nintendo fans are perpetually starving for game reveals and news. With no updates on future titles beyond the upcoming Paper Mario release, the Nintendo community began scouring the Internet for information. The fan base settled on an obscure Spanish
Read moreTrademark renewals for dormant intellectual properties are nothing new for the video game industry. While a handful of filings serve as placeholders for future projects, most simply offer protection against competitor use. But every so often, a series of events aggregates into the confirmed revival of an iconic franchise. Although Microsoft has yet to announce a sequel, a Fable 4
Read moreThe adaptation of video game series to other forms of media does not always yield optimum results. While the Resident Evil movies remain a silver lining, the big screen conversions of Mortal Kombat, Max Payne, Super Mario Bros., and Doom were utter failures. But the recent success of Detective Pikachu and Sonic has given studios the courage to keep trying.
Read moreIn general, society views competition as a positive experience and influence. While passion in the heat of the moment can lead to questionable impulses, competition teaches work ethic, camaraderie, and respect. But under certain circumstances, competition can be detrimental. For example, rivalry among video game companies normally manifests in the form of console exclusives. This result precludes large segments of
Read moreAs the world continues to struggle from the pandemic, video game release schedules remains volatile. Notable 2020 delays include Cyberpunk 2077, Ghost of Tsushima, Final Fantasy VII Remake, The Last of Us 2, and others. In the midst of chaos and uncertainty, studios are hesitant to update the community on future video game titles. But on Monday, news leaked regarding
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