EA Says Freemium Model Is Most Popular Amongst Gamers

Electronic Arts' Real Racing 3 was the first time that the series had gone to a freemium model, with in-app purchases being the money-maker for the company. However, while users can download the game for free, many folks weren't too pleased that restrictions were put on the game because of the $0.00 price tag. However, EA thinks that's what gamers want most.

Speaking with GamesIndustry.biz, senior vice president of EA's mobile and social All Play label, Nick Earl, says that a majority of mobile gamers prefer the free-to-play model, and those who dislike it are a "vocal minority." Earl says that "the market has spoken very loudly that that's the model they like," and he also says that "ultimately the numbers would show that they and others all support the freemium model better."

Earl mentioned Real Racing 3's in-app microtransactions, which requires racers to pay money if they want to speed up certain tasks, such as repairs and upgrades, or if gamers want a fast track to owning that Lamborghini, they can pay real money to own one. Of course, users can earn coins throughout the game to help speed along repairs and upgrades, but the real complaint was the implication of these features in the first place.

When referring to the types of gamers who prefer the all-you-can-eat model, Earl notes "that's the kind of people they are. But at the end of the day, they're going to pay to eat, if that's their choice. And they're happy doing it." In other words, deal with it if you don't like it. Read our review of Real Racing 3 to learn more about the game.

[via GamesIndustry.biz]