Game Lif: Bioshock Infinite Delayed and Gotcha Controversy in Japan
Summary
In this article, we discuss the delay of the launch of Bioshock Infinite and the controversy surrounding the use of “gotcha” systems in mobile video games in Japan.
Bioshock Infinite Delayed
Irrational Games has announced that the launch of Bioshock Infinite will be delayed from its original release date of October 16th to February 26th, 2013. The game’s creative director, Ken Levine, stated that the team wants to add new improvements to make the game “something even more extraordinary.” Additionally, Irrational Games will not be showcasing Bioshock Infinite at E3 or any other trade shows this year. This is a surprising twist since Ken Levine was very enthusiastic about the October release date during an interview with Wired in March, stating that “We know when it’s time to put pencils down.” The big question is whether Irrational Games is truly adding extra features to Bioshock Infinite or if there are unforeseen issues with the development process. Only time will tell.
Gotcha Controversy in Japan
“Gotcha” is a Japanese word for vending machines that dispense toys. Recently, the term has been used in the context of mobile video games. Players in games that use “gotcha” systems can spend money in virtual vending machines in their cell phone games in hopes of obtaining rare items. If they collect full sets of these items, they can receive even rarer items. This has become big business for companies like DNA and GRI.
However, like similar controversies over games like FarmVille in the United States, this practice is not without its downsides. Parents in Japan have reported stories of their children spending thousands of dollars on games with “gotcha” systems via their cell phones. In response, GRII and DNA have limited kids’ spending. The Japanese government’s Consumer Affairs Agency has also stated that the “gotcha” sales may be illegal and violate the country’s gambling laws. The possibility of a government crackdown on “gotcha” systems caused stock in GRII and DNA to drop by over 20%. Japan’s mobile game companies have responded by announcing that they will end all “gotcha” sales.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the delay of Bioshock Infinite’s release and the “gotcha” controversy in Japan are two significant events in the video game industry. Both events show the impact that decisions made by game developers and companies can have on consumers and the industry as a whole. It will be interesting to see how these events continue to unfold in the future.
