Thursday, 8 January 2015

Task 1 - The Value Chain



Developers
These are the studios that create and develop the video games. They can vary in size, from a small group of 10 people, to large studios up to 100-200. Some developers work independently, and some are owned by publishers.Video game projects are either commission by publishers, or they can be started by developers then pitched to the publishers for approval and funding. Developers work around 30-40 hours/week with a salary starting at £25,000+, though it can vary between different companies.

Publishers

Publishers are companies that publish games that have been developed either internally, or by another development company. Video game projects need to be approved by the publishers to get the funding they need. Marketing and manufacturing is taken care by the publishers, so the developers can focus on their projects.







Console Manufacturers/ First Party Publishers
A First Party Publisher is a company that manufactures a console and develops and publishes it solely for that console. An example of this would be Sony, who develops games such as the Uncharted series, an exclusive for the PS4. They can also permit 3rd party publishers to develop games for the consoles.


Distribution and Retail

Publishers organize the distribution of video games. Video games can be distributed online, and in retail shops. Small sections of games can be distributed as demos, to allow consumers to try it out for free.




Outsourcing Companies

Outsourcing is an effective cost-saving strategy for Developers and Publishers. Outsourcing companies can provide services to developers and publishers, such as:
Art, animation, design, rendering, graphics, etc.

Press and Media

Press and Media are responsible for providing reviews and analysis for video games and companies. These are spread and seen either on websites, or in magazines. The media can determine whether a game is successful or a failure.

No comments:

Post a Comment