EA parks Need for Speed World’s release next to StarCraft II
Activision Blizzard’s biggest new release since World of Warcraft won’t be without competition on July 27, as EA has announced that the microtranaction-based MMO racer Need for Speed World will pull out of the pit on that day. Read on for more launch details.
On the surface, the launch of an experimental racing game concept alongside a tried-and-true PC franchise wouldn’t be seen as much of a challenge. This is, however, the two biggest third-party video publishers in the world, so any instance of counter-programming is worth examining. On July 27, PC gamers will have two very distinct options when they boot up their rigs. For $60, they’ll be able to take part in one of the most highly-anticipated titles every brought to the platform, coming from a company known for delivering the world’s greatest computer games.
EA on the other hand, is trying its hand at adapting its prized racing franchise to the PC’s unique microtransaction economy. Need for Speed World will be available on the same day, and players will have access to a large amount of the game’s content without spending any money. The publisher is hoping to reap profits by having players purchase upgrades and car rentals, and is trying to encourage launch players to buy by offering a $20 starter pack that includes $20 of in-game credit alongside extra content and (if ordered now) access to the game immediately. Those who choose to opt-in now or at launch can do so at world.needforspeed.com.
Two PC products will be competing for your time and money in different ways. Are planning on playing neither, one of the two, or both?
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