Franchises: to MMOG or not to MMOG?
What are the merits of making major intellectual properties, such as Star Trek or Harry Potter, into MMORPGs? This issue is being debated over at MMORPG.com, and there are some compelling arguments. From an investor's point of view, having an established fan base and well-trodden publicity channels means that the MMO comes with instant appeal.
However, the more high-profile the franchise, the more players expect out of it. Not everyone can be Captain Kirk or Harry Potter, and yet everyone wants to fulfil their daydreams. Worlds brought to life primarily in books might not turn out quite how fans expect them to; worlds visualised in movies have missing depth which needs addressing.
Fundamentally, as Dana Massey points out, it comes down to whether fans love the franchise because of its story, or because of its world. Harry Potter fans are caught up in Harry's story; Star Trek fans have an entire universe to play with. When checking out a new MMO's setting, ask yourself: do I care about this because of the famous characters, or because of the world?
[via Wonderland]
