Leaked: Game Developers Creating Game that is more than 90% DLC

by P.N. Guinn

A leaked memo indicates that a large game publisher is considering releasing a game with the intention of making 90% of the game DLC only.  Apparently the game design features a first level as a tutorial, ending as a “boss fight” and credits roll.  While the game will function this way at release, apparently the intent is to release a DLC to “expand” the game within 2 to 5 days of its release.  The memo says, “While we anticipate some backlash, the intent is to make an apology and then quickly release DLC.  Marketing and PR have already decided that we will explained that due to overtime costs, extra work, and other issues, we are forced to charge $0.99 for the expansion.”

The memo continues to elucidate a timetable of 3 to 6 months of semi-weekly DLC releases, all but a smattering to be charged for.  “In initial release we will announce further plans of expansion in order to ‘enhance user experience.  Second DLC will be free, but mainly a luxury item gain.  The next will be planned at $1.99 and future will go between $2.99 and $4.99.”  Later the memo discusses the PR aspects, “Again, backlash is anticipated, but given past consumer behavior, short term sales will be hindered but long term sales are not expected to be effected.”

Elsewhere the memo discusses way to make sales more obscured from actual cash value through the purchase of “points, credits or some other tokens.”  It continues, “this has the effect of insulating consumers from the emotional effect of purchasing the DLC by adding distribution steps.”

Unfortunately the name of the company and name of the game in question is redacted from the memo.  When the Daily Rager questioned executives of various companies.  Activision Blizzard source stated, “That’s a fascinating idea we would explore, but I cannot comment on whether that is our product or not.”

An individual working at Take2 stated that, “I cannot confirm or deny we are currently engaged in a product that resembles this memo, but we will be looking into the details and models of sales that take place.”

A high level executive from Electronics Arts said, “Hell of an idea, but I can’t say whether it’s from us or not.”