The Fall of Anthem: A Warning Sign for the Games-as-a-Service Model?
The recent announcement that BioWare’s Anthem will have its servers shut down marks a definitive end to a game plagued by problems from its inception. More than just the loss of a single title, Anthem’s demise signals a potential turning point in the industry’s reliance on the “games-as-a-service” (GaaS) model. This isn’t simply about a failed game; it’s about a fundamental shift in how we consume and create interactive entertainment.
The Rise and Rapid Fall of Anthem
Anthem launched in 2019 with considerable hype, promising a shared-world action RPG experience centered around customizable “Javelins” – powerful exosuits. However, the game was quickly criticized for its repetitive gameplay loop, lack of compelling endgame content, and a litany of technical issues. Despite promises of a significant overhaul, dubbed “Anthem Next,” Electronic Arts (EA) ultimately pulled the plug, citing the project’s unviability.
The story of Anthem isn’t unique. Numerous GaaS titles have stumbled, but its high profile and the resources invested make it a particularly stark example. Consider Babylon’s Fall (PlatinumGames), which was shut down less than a year after launch, or Bleeding Edge (Ninja Theory), cancelled after only a few months. These failures highlight the inherent risks of a model dependent on continuous player engagement and revenue.
The GaaS Model: A Double-Edged Sword
The GaaS model, popularized by titles like Fortnite, Apex Legends, and Destiny 2, offers significant potential benefits. It allows developers to continually update and expand their games, fostering long-term player communities and generating recurring revenue through microtransactions and season passes. Fortnite, for example, generated over $9 billion in revenue in its first two years alone (source: Statista).
However, this model also places immense pressure on developers to consistently deliver fresh content and maintain a healthy player base. Failure to do so can lead to dwindling player numbers, negative reviews, and ultimately, the fate of Anthem. The constant need for updates can also lead to rushed development cycles and a decline in quality.
Did you know? The average cost to acquire a paying customer in the free-to-play (often GaaS) market is significantly higher than in traditional premium games, requiring a much larger and more engaged player base to achieve profitability.
The Trend Towards Self-Contained Experiences
Interestingly, we’re seeing a counter-trend emerge: a return to more self-contained, narrative-driven gaming experiences. Titles like Elden Ring, God of War Ragnarök, and Baldur’s Gate 3 have achieved massive critical and commercial success by focusing on delivering a polished, complete experience without relying heavily on ongoing monetization or live service elements. Baldur’s Gate 3, in particular, demonstrated that players are willing to invest significant time and money in a deeply engaging, single-player (or co-op) experience.
This shift suggests that players are becoming increasingly fatigued with the constant demands of GaaS titles. They crave experiences that respect their time and offer a sense of closure. The success of these single-player focused games indicates a desire for quality over quantity, and a preference for games that offer a satisfying conclusion.
The Future of Online Gaming
The future of online gaming likely lies in a hybrid approach. Games will continue to incorporate online elements, but the emphasis will shift towards creating compelling core experiences that can stand on their own. Microtransactions will likely remain, but they will need to be implemented in a way that feels fair and non-intrusive.
Pro Tip: Developers should prioritize building strong communities around their games, even if they aren’t fully reliant on a GaaS model. Regular communication, community events, and mod support can help foster long-term engagement and loyalty.
The EA Factor: A Case Study in Publisher Control
The Anthem situation also highlights the power dynamics between developers and publishers. BioWare, a studio with a long and storied history, was ultimately constrained by EA’s business decisions. The cancellation of Anthem Next, despite the team’s desire to continue working on it, underscores the risks of relying on a publisher who prioritizes short-term profits over long-term creative vision. This dynamic is a recurring theme in the industry, and it often leads to compromised game quality and developer burnout.
FAQ
- What caused Anthem to fail? A combination of factors, including repetitive gameplay, lack of content, technical issues, and ultimately, a lack of commitment from the publisher.
- Is the GaaS model dead? No, but it’s facing increased scrutiny. The model needs to be implemented carefully, with a focus on quality and player engagement.
- Will we see more games like Anthem shut down? Unfortunately, yes. The risks inherent in the GaaS model mean that failures are inevitable.
- Are single-player games making a comeback? Absolutely. Recent successes demonstrate a strong demand for compelling, self-contained gaming experiences.
The story of Anthem serves as a cautionary tale for the gaming industry. It’s a reminder that ambition alone is not enough to guarantee success. Developers need to prioritize quality, listen to their communities, and have the freedom to pursue their creative visions. The future of gaming depends on it.
Want to learn more about the challenges facing game developers? Check out our article on the impact of crunch culture on game development.
What are your thoughts on the future of games-as-a-service? Share your opinions in the comments below!
