The Call of Duty franchise has never been one to shy away from bold DLC choices, being the first to instigate and risk a high-priced DLC map pack that many analysts thought was a bad idea. Instead, the company generated record profits from DLC and has put forth relatively expensive - and equally successful - map packs since. With Activision CEO Bobby Kotick's belief that the strength of the continued success relies on DLC-based profits, many are wondering what the next Call of Duty can do to draw in the same amount of profits - and Janco Partners analyst Mike Hickey believes he found the answer: Item-Based Sales.
While many gamers may be alarmed at how it sounds, they did already promise not to make gamers pay for things they're already getting for free.
However, it seems likely that extra weapons and potential bonuses may be available in some kind of DLC store for those willing to pay to get an edge to their game. Map Packs are already a given, and Hickey has a few ideas of his own on what Beachhead Studio could add to their future DLC offerings:
"Additional online services through Beachhead could include a more extensive in-game wagering system (Zynga poker style), competitive leagues/tournaments, community development, exclusive content, traditional map pack DLC offerings, and vanity / customisation related items."
The idea of a more intensive wagering system is certainly an interesting idea. If users purchase some in-game currency and then are able to wager it, potentially winning more which could be put towards in-game weapons, camouflage and the like, there could be a really intense system that could lead to a lot of tricky matches.
Imagine playing a certain single-bullet wager match in the current Black Ops, but even more intense. It's interesting to think about, but at the same time sounds like something the strict Xbox Live policies might be against.
In any event, it seems likely there will be a plethora of DLC options available for Call of Duty gamers. With Beachhead hinting enough for analysts to fully believe this might be the case, and trends certainly pointing that direction, don't be surprised if the average Black Ops sequel player might end up spending a little more to enhance their online soldiers.
What are your thoughts on such an extensive DLC system? Would you be okay with it if nothing upset the balance of gameplay? Tell us your thoughts!
The sequel to Black Ops is expected - at least by Mike Hickey - to be released in 2012, among with more than a few Call of Duty titles in the coming years.
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Source: CVG