![\"Batman](\"http:\/\/mygaming.co.za\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/03\/Batman-Arkham-City-double-hand-crushsmall.jpg\" "\\"Batman")
<\/a>\u201cPC is still a very buoyant platform in the gaming industry”<\/p><\/div>\n
The price of a console game<\/h3>\n
With regards to the console market, MyGaming asked how console game prices have changed over the few years.<\/p>\n
SKE said that \u201coverall the pricing matrix for a new console release has not changed; however, exchange rate fluctuations influence both the unit cost, in addition to distribution and logistics costs. As such the overall pricing for all gaming related products has been on an upward trend. Ultimately, the goal is to offer the best price possible to the end user.”<\/p>\n
Megarom explained that the console price tags SA gamers will be familiar with are a direct result of exchange rate pressures. “We have seen most console game prices move from a R599.00 to a R699.00 price point; [although] a good number of retailers have incredibly competitive pre-order prices which consumers should keep a look out for.”<\/p>\n
Console versus PC game prices<\/h3>\n
Many gamers have wondered why PC games are cheaper than the console version of the same game. SKE explained that the price difference is due to licensing, royalties, and fixed production cost differences, along with the demand for the game as a result of piracy.<\/p>\n
“Piracy, or \u2018cracked codes\u2019, adversely impact the industry and the availability of new titles. As long as people keep on using pirated games, the less content will be headed toward the format. Millions go into development and support for a game, and due to piracy, it makes it difficult to continue producing quality product in the category,\u201d explained SKE.<\/p>\n
<\/a>“Piracy makes it difficult to continue producing quality product”<\/p><\/div>\n
AAA versus the rest<\/h3>\n
Another question revolves around the pricing differences between lower-to-middle tier games, and those of \u201ctriple-A\u201d titles.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe development of games is risky business. In order for developers [and] publishers to invest into new IP\u2019s, and to work to deliver better quality games, a premium cost is attached,\u201d said SKE. \u201cThis price, as a basic has been static for years. On occasion, a strong title platform driver will surface, and these titles can command a higher retail tag. However the goal, with all games, regardless of calibre is to offer the best price to end user.\u201d<\/p>\n
Megarom went on to explain that South Africa has a very unique game market, and while we do face challenges, we also have great benefits as well.<\/p>\n
“An area that South Africa really excels in, versus international markets, is the huge value and variety in our back catalogue ranges, as gamers are really spoilt for choice and can pick up some serious bargains. Internationally, this range is just not available at store level,” said Megarom.<\/p>\n
“In a perfect world, we would like to keep gaming as affordable as possible, as price has a huge impact on sales,” added Megarom. “It is in the interest of everyone to try and keep prices down as more games sold means we are able to grow this amazing market into the future.”<\/p>\n
EA South Africa and Apex Interactive were contacted for their comment, but did not respond by the time of publication.<\/p>\n
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