Gaming: convergence is inevitable
From Pong to Assassins Creed II, games have evolved into a business and art form that is starting to merge with the traditional screen media. Miguel Gonzalez found filmmakers should start playing if they want to win.
“Computer Game: Approx $80, almost guaranteed entertainment, at least 30 hours fun. 2 Hollywood blockbuster dates: approx $80 (plus the rest), 5 hours of ‘fun’. Computer game wins every time.”
Nice work Miguel. You have captured the opportunities and excitement that are about to hit the content production markets. Audiences are across multiple platforms (often simultaneously) and it makes total sense for a story and characters to exist on all relevant platforms.
That said, when a new project is starting up it should be obvious that different digital media platforms should not be treated as boxes to be ticked. In other words, 360 degree commissioning should not mandate 360 degrees. It might be appropriate for that project only to have 260, 90 – whatever use of digital interactive media that makes sense for the characters and narrative to create depth of character and deeper immersion in the plot.
The projects we are working on at the moment start as totally platform-agnostic. We bring in mobile, online, games, video where they have the most impact.
Judging by the increased interest in this approach from broadcasters and production companies, this new way to reach new audiences will become an increasingly important part of the core production process in the future.
Guy
Interesting to note that out of the 6 scripts/projects I’m currently attached to, there are 2 which definitely have a game component/element to them.
Especially if you like fighting your way thru a prison and a whole bunch of ‘Things’ running loose and ripping everything apart… Think ’28 Days Later’, but set in a prison!
Drop me a line if you’re interested.