Epic Games Store Unveils Self-Publishing and Enforces Cross-Play: A Paradigm Shift in PC Gaming
Introduction:
In a bold move that has sent shockwaves through the gaming industry, the Epic Games Store, the brainchild behind blockbusters like Fortnite and Rocket League, has opened its doors to self-publishing for game developers. This pivotal decision marks a major milestone in the store’s evolution, as it aims to challenge the dominance of the long-reigning Steam platform. For developers, this development presents both tantalizing opportunities and intricate challenges. While the path to publishing and reaching a broader audience is now less arduous, adhering to certain requirements may introduce complexities to the publishing process.
Key Points:
1. Simplified Publishing Process:
The Epic Games Store has removed the middleman, allowing developers to bypass third-party publishers and directly publish their games. This streamlined approach alleviates barriers to entry, granting developers greater control over the publishing process. With this newfound autonomy, developers can retain a larger share of their revenue and potentially reach a wider audience.
2. Cross-Play Requirement:
Epic Games has introduced a unique requirement for online multiplayer games submitted to its store: they must support cross-play between different platforms. This means that players who purchase a game on the Epic Games Store must be able to seamlessly connect and play with those who own the game on other platforms such as Steam, the Xbox PC app, or even consoles like PlayStation and Nintendo Switch. This bold move is a testament to Epic Games’ commitment to fostering a more inclusive and connected gaming community.
3. Benefits for Consumers:
The requirement for cross-play is a consumer-centric move that eliminates platform-based segregation. Players are no longer confined to their preferred platform; they can now engage with friends and fellow gamers regardless of their chosen platform. This promotes a more inclusive and connected gaming community, allowing players to form alliances and rivalries across platform boundaries.
Positive Example: Arkane Studios’ Redfall
Arkane Studios has set an exemplary precedent by announcing cross-play support for its upcoming vampire-hunting action game, Redfall. Additionally, Redfall will feature cross-platform support between PC and Xbox consoles, further expanding the possibilities for multiplayer gaming. This move demonstrates Arkane Studios’ commitment to embracing the cross-play revolution and providing players with the most immersive and inclusive gaming experience.
4. Revenue Sharing and Fees:
Similar to Steam, Epic Games charges a one-time $100 fee for self-publishing a game. However, the revenue sharing model differs significantly. Epic takes a 12% cut from game sales, while Steam claims a 30% revenue share for most games, which is considered the industry standard. This favorable revenue sharing model is a major incentive for developers to publish their games on the Epic Games Store, as they can retain a larger portion of their earnings.
Steam’s Adjusted Revenue Sharing Plan
In 2018, Steam modified its revenue sharing plan, offering top-selling games that generate over $10 million a larger portion of the revenue. This adjustment aims to incentivize developers and encourage the creation of high-quality, successful titles. While still higher than Epic Games’ 12% cut, this revised revenue sharing plan demonstrates Steam’s willingness to adapt and compete in the evolving gaming landscape.
5. Free Games and Year in Review 2022:
In its Year in Review 2022 report, Epic Games revealed a remarkable statistic: it gave away 99 free games last year, with a combined value of a staggering $2,240. This generous giveaway highlights Epic Games’ commitment to providing value to its users and fostering a thriving gaming community. The company has confirmed that it will continue this practice in 2023, ensuring a steady stream of free games for its loyal users.
Conclusion:
The launch of self-publishing on the Epic Games Store is a watershed moment that has the potential to reshape the gaming landscape. The move simplifies the publishing process for developers, while also promoting cross-play and fostering a more inclusive gaming community. The different revenue sharing models of Epic and Steam present both opportunities and challenges for developers, who must carefully weigh the pros and cons of each platform before deciding where to publish their games. As the Epic Games Store continues to evolve and add new features, it remains to be seen how it will fare against the established dominance of Steam in the PC gaming market.
