Sony Opts for Paid Live Service Model, Shying Away from Free-to-Play

Sony's recent State of Play event underscored its commitment to live service games, with a significant portion dedicated to the upcoming hero shooter, Concord. Notably, Concord will not be free-to-play, instead launching at a $40 price point, similar to Helldivers 2. This strategy suggests Sony is exploring an alternative to the widely adopted free-to-play model for its live service titles. By choosing a paid model, Sony faces difficulties in attracting a large player base but may ultimately create a more sustainable business. The decision not to follow the free-to-play trend, which often removes barriers to entry and encourages a larger player base, could lead to a more engaged and invested community. Sony's approach, while unconventional, may be influenced by its platform holder status and the desire to maintain a level of quality and responsibility in its games. The inclusion of future content, such as maps and characters, at no additional cost could also contribute to a positive player experience. However, the choice to avoid free-to-play may limit the game's appeal to more casual players and presents a challenge in competing with established free-to-play titles. Sony's experience with Helldivers 2, which has seen significant success despite using a paid model, may have informed this decision. The company may be leveraging its PS Plus subscription service as a means to offer games for free for a limited time, potentially mitigating the need for a full free-to-play model. Ultimately, Sony's strategy, though potentially more difficult, may yield a more sustainable live service business in the long term.