IGN - Why PC?

[Dhruin]

PC.IGN has a surprisingly good editorial called Why PC? that argues carrying over the same mass-market mentality publishers often apply to console games to PC development, doesn't serve the strengths of the platform and - ultimately - might be less profitable because niches that could thrive are ignored or watered down:

The difference between the console and PC markets is kind of like the difference between network and cable TV. NCIS and Dancing with the Stars will always have more mass appeal than Iron Chef or SpongeBob simply because they're designed and positioned to attract a larger demographic. But the specific appeal of the cable show is in finding a smaller niche or an underserved segment of the market and delivering the content they're not able to get from the major networks. The mass-market games like Madden or Street Fighter or Mario are a great fit for the consoles, but I don't think that the most profitable future for PC games is in trying to adopt that same mentality. To the extent that the PC catalog reflects this thinking, it fails to serve the individual gamers who want their war games, racing sims, or sports management titles to have a depth of detail that only the most hardcore can appreciate.

More information.

 

[Zloth]

Great article, though I think he needs to look at the marketing side, too. 30 second TV ads and 2 minute videos are not going to be able to convey deep gameplay systems, strong plots, or the fact that the game is going to keep you entertained for a long time. You really need reviews to tell you that. Games with good graphics, lots of action, and maybe some sex appeal (see Bayonetta, for example) can fit right in to them, though.

I do agree with what he's saying. GalCiv 2 is a great example.

 

[txa1265]

Great article, though I think he needs to look at the marketing side, too. 30 second TV ads and 2 minute videos are not going to be able to convey deep gameplay systems, strong plots, or the fact that the game is going to keep you entertained for a long time. You really need reviews to tell you that. Games with good graphics, lots of action, and maybe some sex appeal (see Bayonetta, for example) can fit right in to them, though.

Exactly, I showed my wife some of Dragon Age and they contrasted quite a bit with her image from the commercials.

 

[Wulf]

I still perceive the PC and the console as two separate entities...even for the same game!

I have stuck like glue to the PC since it was conceived and will continue to its eternity.
When i see a game spanning two platform i know its money oriented more than game playing enthusiasm by the developer (and cross platform reviewing can become chaotic and tiresome.)

I swear to play the PC - the whole PC - and nothing but the PC - so help me God.

 

[JDR13]

I swear to play the PC - the whole PC - and nothing but the PC - so help me God.

You're missing out on a lot of great games with the "nothing but" attitude… although I would definitely take the PC if I had to choose one platform.

 

[Thaurin]

Simply put, some games work better on a console. I'd rather play most platformers with a controller, for instance. But this is an RPG site, so I guess most people are interested more in the hardcore PC RPGs. Although I do think that third-person hack-and-slash is more fun on a console, especially two-player.

 

[txa1265]

You're missing out on a lot of great games with the "nothing but" attitude… although I would definitely take the PC if I had to choose one platform.

I agree - and personally I actually like playing games at a desk or in bed on my laptop / netbook.