Split Fiction director says microtransactions are a “huge problem” affecting game developers

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Regarding microtransactions being a significant aspect of video games today, Joseph Fares, the head of Split Faction, feels that they should not be part of the gaming world at all.

Joseph Fares gained widespread recognition in 2013 following the release of Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons, a game he developed. Subsequently, he created A Way Out and It Takes Two.

What makes these games unique is their focus on local multiplayer, a skill that’s increasingly rare in modern video games. One example that gained significant popularity is It Takes Two, which was awarded Game of the Year at The Game Awards in 2021.

Fares’ most recent venture, titled “Split Fiction,” is set to debut on March 6th. Our critique hailed the cooperative game as a shining example of gaming genius, surpassing even the acclaim garnered by “It Takes Two.

Through the exceptional narrative of Split Fiction’s project, Fares solidified his reputation as a prominent figure in the gaming industry. He also shared a significant factor that often hinders other game developers in terms of creative growth.

Split Faction director takes hard stance against microtransactions

Joseph Fares, the director behind studios like Split Faction, It Takes Two, A Way Out, and Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons, addressed comments on YouTube, and one admirer stated, “No random loot boxes, no microtransactions, no nonsense. A philosophy to embrace!

Whenever you opt for designs that increase the game’s monetary aspects, I believe this poses a significant issue, and it hinders the growth of our industry in terms of creativity,” Fares expressed his viewpoint.

It’s understandable that suggesting the elimination of microtransactions from a game might not be well-received by publishers, given that Blizzard reported over $1 billion in total income from microtransactions in Diablo IV alone (by 2024).

Starting from July 1, 2022, around three-quarters (73.5%) of Electronic Arts’ (EA) income comes from Live Services and Micro Transactions. Since 2018, more than half (over 50%) of EA’s revenue has been generated by sales of live content. This percentage rises to 40% since the year 2024.

As an avid gamer and die-hard sports enthusiast, I can’t help but notice how games like EA Sports FC, Madden, and College Football consistently rake in massive profits for the company. Every year, I find myself shelling out a pretty penny on in-game purchases – microtransactions – without even realizing it! It’s fascinating (and somewhat concerning) to think about how much money we fans collectively spend on these digital items.

2022 saw Electronic Arts (EA) pledging to create more standalone games following the successful release of Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order. However, even with this commitment and Fares’ reasoning, it appears that microtransactions will remain a common feature, given their profit-generating potential.

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2025-03-06 23:55