LucasArts’ Darrell Rodriguez has given the first indications of the business model Star Wars The Old Republic might adopt, with hints the West will see monthly subscriptions.
However, regions like Asia could see a free-to-play model with micro-transactions. LucasArts see BioWare’s MMO continuing ”for a very long time” thanks to IP and game quality.
”I think the indicators are subscriptions and ongoing interest, but just related to the IP in and of itself,” said LucasArts president Darrell Rodriguez, speaking with GamesIndustry.biz.
”So it’s a 30 year old IP and we anticipate that the IP and the quality game that we’re making here is going to continue on for a very long time.” BioWare has huge ambitions for the MMO, like having every single NPC and PC conversation accompanied by fully voiced dialogue.
”We talk about the business curves of subscriptions, interest and investment it takes to make these games, but at the end of the day it’s about making a compelling offering for our consumers.”
Rodriguez moves on to the possible business models for the upcoming MMO superstar from BioWare and LucasArts. ”Yeah, we’re considering it all, absolutely,” he says.
”You start looking at how different communities, territories such as Asia, actually play games, and we start to consider it all - especially if we want it to be a worldwide phenomenon.”
Which do you prefer? All inclusive monthly subscriptions, or a free-to-play but piecemeal MMO? No release date has been given for Star Wars The Old Republic, though next October has been rumoured. Check out the ‘Flashpoint’ gameplay clip below.
