The fast-paced nature of the gaming industry means that some stories are unforgettable. In an effort to provide further analysis of these stories, our team at PocketGamer.biz has created a weekly digest where we delve deeper into the most interesting events in mobile gaming from the past week.
Project Q: Sony’s Revolutionary New Handheld Console
As a freelance writer who has worked in this industry for many years, I’ve witnessed numerous console launches, but Sony’s latest handheld console has caught my attention for its revolutionary design. Unlike its predecessors, Project Q is Sony’s first ‘dumb’ console that uses a Dual Shock 5 broken in half with an 8-inch tablet screen in the middle.
For the first time ever, a gaming console will rely on other sources for its processing power, and this could change everything. If Sony can deliver smooth PS5 streaming to the Project Q, it could possibly have a winning product on its hands.
However, there are crucial challenges that Sony must overcome first, including requiring users to own a PS5, explaining their streaming subscription option, and not charging too much for it.
Embracer: What Led to its Downfall?
It’s sad to see Embracer Group, one of the largest gaming companies in the world, fail in front of a live audience. To make it worse, the fall came at the last minute, with the company’s $2 billion deal falling apart.
Despite the disappointing news, there were some silver linings, such as Dead Island 2 being ranked as Deep Silver’s highest-selling title so far after a rocky development cycle.
The question on everyone’s mind, however, is who the deal was with. With speculation rampant, it’ll only be a matter of time before the winner emerges, revealing the true story behind Embracer’s failure.
The Launch of Bad Brain Game Studios
Bad Brain, a new multiplatform studio under the NetEase brand, has done something rare: it’s garnered buzz before the debut of its first game. We know that it’s an open-world horror/adventure title inspired by cult cinema and developed in Montreal.
In addition, the studio’s shrewd marketing tactics have captured the attention of a variety of gamers. By emphasizing substance over bells and whistles, the studio has separated itself from competitors.
Apple’s Upcoming Changes
In its recent anti-trust case, Apple emerged victorious in almost every way – but the implications of losing against Epic Games could be serious for Apple’s future. With the store known for being locked down, developers must give up 30% of their earnings to stay on the platform.
However, if an open Apple store is launched, things could change. Will developers opt to dodge the 30% fee with alternative payment methods, or will Apple’s reputation take a hit due to a deluge of fraudulent apps?
The answers to these questions will become clearer soon, with WWDC on the horizon.