GameSetWatch has just published an excellent feature on the changing face of game distribution that this generation has prompted. Writer Leigh Alexander lists out the current issues (rising costs of game development, price ceilings for consumers, a growing gamer population with less demand for longer games) with the current model of distribution, then sets out three possible arenas for change:

“First, the so-called “rise of a new audience” of casual gamers, or at least, lighter-engagement gamers outside the traditional hardcore demographic. Second, the increase in digital distribution and connected content; third, the success of the free-to-play biz model.”

It’s a very well-conceived piece, with some excellent predictions about the near-future of the industry. Her point that many of the so-called “casual” gamers that are active now are actually just grown-up hardcore gamers with less time and money (but no less interest) to spend on their hobby is very well taken.

According to a recent article on Forbes.com, the videogame industry netted an impressive $40 billion in hardware and software sales worldwide in 2007. Looking at the numbers breakdown, it seems that games released as part of established franchises dominated (citing Halo 3, Call of Duty 4, and Madden NFL 08), along with games aimed at more »