Activision has said they would consider pursuing an online subscription plan similar to the one Electronic Arts just rolled out with EA Access "once those models are proven."
Though the publisher didn't specify EA Access when answering the question about "creating an online subscription plan where players can access older catalog titles and get early access to new titles," the contents of the question basically alluded to EA's new service which has been met with mixed criticism.
"As you know, we have a very focused strategy as a company and we tend to focus our resources and our people on the biggest and best creative and commercial opportunities," said Activision CEO Eric Hirshberg. "And right now, I think, we have our strongest slate ever and we're broadening that slate so we have a lot of focus on and a lot to make sure we get right in the coming months to keep our tentpole franchises driving and establishing new ones as well. And we think everything we're working on has huge potential."
"So of course, we're always looking at new opportunities to better serve our players and our communities and we're always evaluating new business models. And once those models are proven, we'll pursue them if we think it makes sense for our players and for our business," he said.
So while it's possible that Activision could explore this subscription business model in the future, Hirshberg reiterated that Blizzard is focused on the business and monetization models that they think will deliver "the best experience for our fans and a great return for our shareholders."
EA Access was unveiled exclusively for Xbox One last week. The new service allows members to access EA's "Vault" — catalog of games — for just $4.99 a month or $29.99 for the year. Since the program is in beta right now, only four games are available: FIFA 14, Madden NFL 25, Battlefield 4 and Peggle 2, "with more to come in the future." Additionally, EA Access members enjoy other benefits including discounts on EA's digital purchases and early access to upcoming games.
Would you like to see Activision adopt a similar business model for its own catalog of games?
