The Cross-Media Dream: A Reality Two Decades Later

The success of The Last of Us and Hogwarts Legacy demonstrates the power of cross-media franchises, where different mediums complement each other to create a cohesive and engaging experience. Although these franchises have distinct audiences and approaches, they share a common thread - the ability to transcend traditional media boundaries and create a new kind of entertainment ecosystem. The concept of cross-media has been around for decades, with early experiments in the 1990s and 2000s laying the groundwork for today's successful franchises. The key to success lies in creating a virtuous circle, where each medium supports and enhances the others, rather than simply exploiting the popularity of an existing IP. The Last of Us, with its faithful TV adaptation, and Hogwarts Legacy, with its innovative approach to the Wizarding World, are prime examples of this principle in action. By allowing each component to stand on its own while still contributing to the larger narrative, these franchises have created a new model for cross-media storytelling. The future of entertainment will likely be shaped by the ability to craft compelling, diverse franchises that span multiple mediums, and the skill to build and capitalize on these franchises will be crucial for publishers and IP holders. As the industry continues to evolve, it's clear that the potential of cross-media is finally being realized, and the possibilities are endless.