>>>The list is somewhat misleading because the source is PCDATA and
it only accounts for the Retailers that they track, they included most of the largest chains of Retailers , BUT not everyone and not rest of world<<<
I understand, Coy (and thanks for publishing these stats all the time, BTW.)
Still, I think my point stands. The developers get a tiny fraction of the total sales after the console manufacturers and distributors and retailers are done. Then after paying the tools companies, etc etc there is typically a big red hole at the bottom line.
These companies exist at the sufferance of others. Their function in the industry is to 'produce content' at the lowest possible price, not to lead it or make money, as far as those with power are concerned. The stockholders put up the money for this bogus system to go forward, and are in the end the ones who actually pay for game development. Them, and the foolish developers who believe they will ever be paid significant royalties (I did a number of royalty deals before I noticed the 'take me to the cleaners' sign they had tatooed on my forehead ;-)
Now that it's harder and harder to scare up investors who will believe the game hype, can the current system continue? Personally, I'm hoping it collapses and is replaced by something with rights for both investors and developers.
Cheers,
Chaz |
