Do Gamers Actually Own Live Service Games

In recent years, the gaming industry has seen a shift towards live service games, which are designed to provide ongoing content and support for players. However, this shift has led to some confusion among gamers regarding their ownership of these games. In this article, we'll take a closer look at live service games and discuss the recent issues with Babylon's Fall, a game developed by Square Enix.

What Are Live Service Games

Live service games are typically multiplayer games that are designed to be played over an extended period of time. They often feature ongoing updates and new content, such as new levels, characters, and gameplay modes. Some popular examples of live service games include Fortnite, Apex Legends, and Call of Duty: Warzone.

Do Gamers Own Live Service Games

While gamers may purchase a physical or digital copy of a live service game, they typically do not own the game itself. Instead, their access to the game is tied to their online account or subscription to a service such as Xbox Live, PlayStation Plus, or Steam. This means that if the developer or publisher decides to shut down the servers or discontinue support for the game, players may lose access to the game and any in-game purchases or progress.

The Risks of Live Service Games

One of the risks of live service games is that players may lose access to the game if the developer or publisher decides to shut down the servers or discontinue support for the game. This can result in the loss of in-game purchases and progress. Additionally, some live service games rely heavily on microtransactions, which can be controversial and may make some players feel like they are being taken advantage of.

Babylon's Fall: Falling Apart

One recent example of a live service game facing issues is Babylon's Fall, a game developed by Square Enix. The game was released in December 2021 and received mixed reviews from players and critics. While some praised the game's art style and story, others criticized its combat system and microtransactions.

Why Babylon's Fall Failed

There are several reasons why Babylon's Fall is falling apart. One issue is the game's combat system, which has been criticized for being too slow and clunky. Another issue is the game's microtransactions, which have been described as being too expensive and too intrusive. Some players have also complained about the game's lack of content, particularly at higher levels.

The Future of Live Service Games

While live service games have become increasingly popular in recent years, there are risks associated with them. As such, it is important for gamers to understand their ownership of these games and the potential risks involved. Additionally, developers and publishers must be mindful of these risks and work to address any issues that arise in order to maintain the trust and loyalty of their player base. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how live service games continue to develop and whether they will remain a popular trend in the years to come.