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Comment by Daz1 | Hacker News Reader

>they re release the same game every year with minor to no changes:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FIFA_(video_game_series)

Please stop spreading disinformation. Aside from the usual graphical changes and annual roster updates you can see a list of major changes under each release.

>The userbase that plays these games do not care.

So what exactly is the problem if they're clearly meeting the expectations of their userbase?

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I think there is an argument to be made that a game franchise known absolutely to see new, regular annual releases could be better served as a GAAS (Game As A Service) instead of as standalone releases that demand to be purchased each time.

Food for thought.

Paradox Interactive recently did this for the Europa Universalis series, and honestly it's a good deal for new adopters. That being said, it's more expensive than a humble bundle sale (which happens often, at least annually). The EU4 game receives at least 2 DLCs as well as other music packs and sound packs a year, so it makes sense to get the subscription (which could still be more affordable for some people though).

Fifa 23 for PC came out for €60 and dropped to €40 in November 2022, and then jumped back and forth between those prices. That is €5 or ~€3.50 per month, paid annually, and you keep content if you stop subscribing. What would you expect a GaaS model to bring?

You mean EA Play? I’ve subscribed for a month or two at a time when I wanted to play some FIFA or another EA title. You certainly don’t need to purchase the standalone titles.

Vast majority of profits are from their gacha mode so it wouldn't matter, but traditions™ to reap the harvest each year are stronger for now.

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