Highlights:
- An executive at Ubisoft has said gamers will need to get “comfortable” not owning their games before video game subscriptions truly take off.
- Ubisoft is launching new subscription services called Ubisoft+ Premium and Ubisoft+ Classics.
- The director of subscriptions at Ubisoft, Philippe Tremblay, believes that video game subscriptions will be the future of gaming.
- Tremblay also mentioned that cloud gaming services like Google Stadia and Microsoft xCloud will play a significant role in the growth of game subscriptions.
- While some gamers may be hesitant to embrace the concept of not owning physical copies of games, Tremblay believes that the convenience and variety offered by subscriptions will win them over.
Introduction
In a recent interview, Philippe Tremblay, the director of subscriptions at Ubisoft, discussed the future of gaming and the role of video game subscriptions. Ubisoft, known for developing popular game franchises such as Assassin’s Creed and Far Cry, is launching two new subscription services called Ubisoft+ Premium and Ubisoft+ Classics. Tremblay believes that these subscription services, along with cloud gaming platforms like Google Stadia and Microsoft xCloud, will play a significant role in the future of gaming. However, he also acknowledges that gamers will need to adjust their mindset and get comfortable with not owning physical copies of games in order for video game subscriptions to truly take off.
The Rise of Video Game Subscriptions
Video game subscriptions have been steadily gaining popularity in recent years, with services like Xbox Game Pass and PlayStation Plus offering gamers access to a library of games for a monthly fee. These subscriptions provide gamers with a convenient way to access a wide variety of games without the need to purchase each game individually. Ubisoft is now joining the subscription trend with the launch of Ubisoft+ Premium and Ubisoft+ Classics.
Tremblay believes that video game subscriptions are the future of gaming, as they provide a more affordable and accessible way for players to enjoy games. He explains that the cost of purchasing individual games can quickly add up, especially for avid gamers who want to play the latest releases. Subscriptions offer a cost-effective alternative, allowing players to access a large library of games for a fixed monthly fee.
The Convenience and Variety of Subscriptions
One of the main advantages of video game subscriptions is the convenience they offer. Instead of having to purchase physical copies of games or download them individually, players can simply subscribe to a service and instantly access a wide range of games. This eliminates the need for storage space and reduces the hassle of installation and updates.
Tremblay also highlights the variety that subscriptions provide. With a subscription service like Ubisoft+, players can access not only the latest releases but also a selection of classic games. This allows gamers to explore different genres, discover new titles, and revisit old favorites. The variety offered by subscriptions adds to the overall gaming experience and keeps players engaged.
The Role of Cloud Gaming
Tremblay believes that cloud gaming services like Google Stadia and Microsoft xCloud will play a significant role in the growth of video game subscriptions. These services allow players to stream games directly to their devices without the need for powerful hardware or large downloads. With cloud gaming, gamers can access a vast library of games on any compatible device, including smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs.
Cloud gaming services also offer the advantage of instant access. Instead of waiting for a game to download and install, players can start playing immediately. This instant access, combined with the convenience of subscriptions, makes cloud gaming a compelling option for gamers.
Getting Comfortable with Not Owning Games
One of the challenges that video game subscriptions face is the mindset of gamers who are used to owning physical copies of games. Tremblay recognizes that some players may be hesitant to embrace the concept of not owning their games, especially if they have been collecting physical copies for years. However, he believes that the convenience and variety offered by subscriptions will eventually win them over.
Tremblay compares the transition from physical copies to subscriptions to the shift from CDs to music streaming services like Spotify. While some music lovers initially resisted the idea of not owning physical albums, the convenience and vast library of songs offered by streaming services eventually convinced them to make the switch. Tremblay believes that the same will happen with video game subscriptions.
He also points out that subscriptions offer benefits that physical copies cannot provide. For example, if a physical copy of a game gets lost or damaged, the player has to purchase a new one. With a subscription, the game is always available as long as the subscription is active. Subscriptions also offer the advantage of early access to new releases and exclusive content, further enhancing the gaming experience.
Conclusion: The Future of Gaming
Philippe Tremblay’s belief in the future of video game subscriptions is well-founded. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, subscriptions offer a more affordable and accessible way for players to enjoy games. The convenience and variety provided by subscriptions, along with the increasing popularity of cloud gaming services, make them an attractive option for gamers.
While the transition from physical copies to subscriptions may require some adjustment for gamers, Tremblay is confident that the benefits offered by subscriptions will outweigh any initial resistance. Just as music lovers eventually embraced music streaming services, gamers will likely come to appreciate the convenience and vast library of games that subscriptions provide.
Overall, video game subscriptions have the potential to revolutionize the way we play and enjoy games. With Ubisoft’s entry into the subscription market and the continued growth of cloud gaming, it is clear that subscriptions are here to stay. So, get ready to say goodbye to physical copies and embrace the future of gaming with video game subscriptions.
