Amazon Faces High Stakes with Upcoming Game Releases | Sales Expectations Under Scrutiny
Edited By
Julia Forester
A recent discussion among gamers raises concerns over Amazon Game Studios' sales expectations for its upcoming titles, especially following the disappointing sales outlook from Square Enix. With the release of two AAA games on the horizon, the pressure mounts on the company to deliver.
The Fallout from Square Enix
The gaming community is wary after Square Enix deemed the Survivor trilogy, which sold approximately 35 million copies, a disappointment. This raises key questions about sales expectations across the industry.
As Amazon Game Studios suffers from recent turmoil, many are skeptical. With some stating, "It feels like every game they fund comes with unrealistic targets," the sentiment suggests there's fear Amazon might follow a similar path.
Sales Predictions Stir Debate
Expectations for the two upcoming titles vary, but opinions lean towards realistic expectations. A common projection is that each game should sell at least 5 million copies to satisfy Amazon's accountants. One poster expressed concern, saying, "If the games flop, imagine how many publishers are willing to fund the next TR project." Clearly, the stakes are high.
Industry Reactions Highlight Concerns
Mixed feelings surface among gamers regarding the future of Amazon's game lineup. Comments include:
"So glad they sold the IP because it feels like CD have done the best work they’ve ever done!"
"8 billion people around the world could buy the newest Square Enix game and they would still be disappointed."
An overwhelming number of comments reflect a pessimistic outlook regarding Amazon's ability to sustain the TR franchise.
"If TR isn't worth the funding, it might remain dormant again," states a concerned gamer, emphasizing the fragility of the franchise.
What Lies Ahead?
As Amazon prepares for its dual AAA game launch, the gaming community remains on edge. Will Amazon align its expectations with market reality? Only time will tell.
Notable Comments
◼️ "Sooo happy that IO interactive and Hitman escaped their clutches tbh"
◻️ "Curiously, we’ll see how Atlantis and Catalyst will be received."
★ "The vast majority of the actual work is going to be done by Flying Wild Hog in Poland."
Insight Summary
5 million copies is seen as a minimal sales target for new releases.
Mixed community sentiment expresses both hope and skepticism regarding Amazon's future in gaming.
Developers like Flying Wild Hog are crucial in shaping the game's potential success.
Given the circumstances, it's crucial for Amazon to recalibrate expectations and focus on quality to secure a brighter future for its gaming division.
Predictions in the Balance
There’s a strong chance that Amazon will rethink its strategy following the feedback from the gaming community and industry shifts. Experts estimate around a 60% probability that the company will lower its sales expectations for the upcoming titles to line up more closely with market realities. If the sales of the new AAA games fall short of the 5 million mark, it could lead to a significant retreat on Amazon's part from the gaming space. The backlash from gamers will likely pressure the studio to ensure future funding aligns with achievable goals, ultimately prompting a shift towards higher quality games over sheer volume.
Lessons from the Past: A Culinary Twist
Reflecting on the food industry, a notable case is that of McDonald's and its attempt to introduce pizza to its menu in the 1980s. Despite being a powerhouse in fast food, the company's pursuit to dominate the pizza segment fell flat, largely due to mismatched expectations and execution. Just like Amazon’s current gaming challenges, McDonald's learned the hard way that even giants need to adapt to customer preferences and competitive landscapes. This isolated effort turned into a valuable lesson, prompting them to focus on their core offerings, which solidified their place in the fast-food hierarchy. As with Amazon, evolving wisely can be key to staying relevant.