Discussing how a strong IP can influence video game popularity and if EA means something horrible for Star Wars fans.
The hope for a happy Star Wars gaming future.
I think the answer to this question is probably mixed; no it’s not a bad thing as long as there are no long term negative impacts. In the vast scheme of things, the most important thing for me is that I am spending my time doing something that I enjoy. If I am willing to spend $50 on a Star Wars game to do so, well that is my decision. The point of me spending the money is to be entertained after all.
I think the negativity can come from the impact of the brand as a whole. The release of the Clone Wars cartoon, as well as the very successful Lego Star Wars games, have done a lot to introduce the Jedi and Sith war to a brand new generation of gamers. This franchise now has the attention of a very large fanbase. As this generation grows up, they will be looking for more mature trips into the Star Wars universe. If the next few games reek of money grabs, whether through over priced DLC or low quality but often released new titles, than that whole group of consumers is going to feel alienated. They might buy the first few, but they will take the hint. The result would be a huge devaluing of the whole IP. The impact could be felt beyond just the gaming products.
Despite the possible worst case scenario, the developers which EA seems to have entrusted the reigns of this franchise too all have fairly solid records. Heck, the inclusion of DICE alone makes me hope for a return to the Republic Commando series, which I felt like had a significant amount of potential. Mind you, the recent registration of domains which suggested sequels to the Gungan Frontier series do have me a bit concerned. Not sure who thinks those sequels would be a good idea.
Odds are, when all this is said and done, I will be first to jump onto to the new series of Star Wars video games. I might even be one of those fans that will pay a premium for a Star Wars game. What happens after that really depends on the level of quality. Let’s hope that EA knows how to harness this franchise appropriately.
