Gameloft shifts away from freemium, releases full versions

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Gameloft shifts away from freemium, releases full versions

Gameloft has returned to its traditional lite/full pricing structure for its recent games following a try at releasing them using a more contemporary ‘freemium’ model. Both Sacred Odyssey and Starfront: Collision were released by Gameloft earlier this year as free limited versions for users to download and try which could then be upgraded to the full version using an in-app purchase (IAP) instead of downloading a separate app. Negative comments in the App Store revealed that many customers did not respond positively to this model, with criticisms ranging from users mistakenly believing that they would need to repurchase the game every time they reinstalled it to others feeling the game was far too large for a trial version. Gameloft’s UK marketing manager, Callum Rowley indicated to PocketGamer that the company had received feedback from “many players who did not feel comfortable with the new free model with in-app purchases” and as a result the company decided to release “the classical, full versions that players are used to buying.” Rowley noted that the freemium IAP versions will remain on the App Store to provide users with a choice of whichever “purchasing experience” they prefer. The full version of Starfront: Collision is available now on the App Store for $7. The full version is identical to the freemium version with the in-app purchase, which remains available on the App Store. A full version of Sacred Odyssey is also expected soon.

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Comments

1

It’s shocking how many still don’t understand how the iTunes app store treats IAP of non-consumables (I’ve seen this sort of complaining in the reviews and games forums threads for every single game that’s tried the IAP unlock model).

Apple could do a much better job at educating customers in general, but I think more importantly, a better system for seeing what you “own” in the app store is needed. It’s not at all intuitive or, for that matter, reassuring to have to click on the buy for $$$ button, enter your password, and then cross your fingers you’ll get the “you’ve already bought this, click to download for free” pop-up (and sometimes I haven’t even gotten that, but at least I’ve not yet been double charged for anything).

That said, I’d rather see the full price versions because we can track them with App Shopper and other services to see when they go on sale, something not possible with the IAP unlock model

Posted by Code Monkey in Midstate New York on March 4, 2011 at 7:00 AM (PST)

2

I think the problem is, what if Gameloft vanishes tomorrow and all their apps get pulled from the app store? If I get a new iPod touch and I CAN’T reauthorize that app because its no longer on the store…I’m stuck with a demo that I paid $6.99 for.

That said…I was one of the goobers who bought the in-app of Sacred Oddysey, and wish I could get a refund to switch to the full app. >.>

Posted by Daniel S. on March 4, 2011 at 10:50 AM (PST)

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