More sad delay news to report, this one way more significant than Atlus USA’s sweeping lineup modification. BioWare has announced that the PC version of Dragon Age: Origins has been pushed back from its original March release window to a simultaneous launch with the PS3 and Xbox 360 versions planned for sometime in the “last half of 2009.” Can’t say I’m shocked by the move, but with the PC supposedly being the lead platform I’m sure there now has to be some worry from the hardcore PC community that the game may now be on track to becoming too console-ized. I’d put my trust in BioWare over almost any other developer though, so I think they’ll satisfy gamers on both ends. Only time will tell.
“Dragon Age: Origins is shaping up to be quite amazing in its level of quality and polish,” said Dr. Ray Muzyka, General Manager and CEO, BioWare and General Manager and Vice President, EA. “I’m really proud of our team, who are working very hard to make Dragon Age: Origins the biggest and most exciting BioWare game yet, and we will work to ensure it not only meets, but exceeds the expectations of our loyal audience of fans.”
The reason is simple, regardless of what is said:
– Rampant PC piracy *will* cannibalize their console sales. Simul-reease with good ol’ draconian EA DRM is the best way to ensure maximum ROI. Actually, based on numbers they could delay the PC release about a month after the console and release it DRM free … but …
There have been interesting discussions in some PC RPG forums, and have a couple of thoughts:
– I hold Bioware accountable for the poor PR move that comes across as disingenuous.
– I do not believe FOR A SECOND that Bioware is using the delay to go back and ‘consolize’ the game.