AdHoc, a company specializing in creating dispatches, describes the episodic business model as "an insane thing to do"

Image credit: AdHoc Studio

AdHoc Studios, the company behind Dispatch, has advised developers to carefully consider before choosing an episodic release format for a game. Executive Producer and CEO Michael Choung remarked that while releasing a game all at once might be considered the norm, their decision to go episodic was viewed as risky by many.

In a conversation with Knowledge, Choung elaborated that no metrics from a production standpoint supported the episodic model. He emphasized that success largely depends on the strength of the content itself. A compelling story can weather a segmented release, whereas a weak narrative might not succeed regardless of its release strategy.

Choung noted that an episodic release can act as a "multiplier"—enhancing good content while failing to rescue poorly crafted narratives. He expressed hope that their approach could inspire other development teams, acknowledging the potential risks involved in such a strategy.

The decision for Dispatch to be released in two episodes each week was reached after considerable debate. This approach intended to extend the coverage across a longer period, mimicking the longstanding tradition of TV shows. The results exceeded expectations, with user engagement growing weekly despite predictions to the contrary.

After launching on October 22, Dispatch sold over one million copies in the first ten days and doubled that number within a month. The studio has indicated that the sales trajectory is likely to surpass their initial three-year target within just three months.

gamesindustry.biz
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