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XCOM On iOS Proves Gamers 'Willing To Pay A Premium Price For A Premium Experience'
In June, 2K Games released its first current-generation console game on a mobile platform. Launching at $20, XCOM: Enemy Unknown was widely hailed as a great translation of the 2012 strategy favorite. The success might have Take-Two leaning toward future, similar adaptations.
On today's Take-Two first quarter 2014 earnings call, CEO Strauss Zelnick stated that XCOM proves that gamers are "willing to pay a premium price for a premium experience." He also indicated that the company will be looking at how else it can bring AAA experiences to mobile platforms.
Our Take
The strategy genre, and XCOM in particular, is a good fit for methodical gameplay. There's no need for virtual thumbsticks or buttons, and the type of gameplay XCOM offers is perfect for touchscreen displays. I can't imagine playing WWE 2K14, The Bureau: XCOM Declassified, or Max Payne on a touchscreen. The input format isn't nearly responsive enough, largely due to the absence of tactile response. XCOM was a success, but hopefully this doesn't herald a haphazard rush into mobile for Take-Two.
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