Mar 1

There are a number of factors that can go towards making a video game enjoyable, but the one aspect that can often set a game apart from the crowd is atmosphere. When done skillfully, a video game can draw gamers into its world and create a unique sense of immersion. Take the Resident Evil series, for example. Though shooter and action style games, in general, are nothing unique, what has set the Resident Evil games apart were the use of building tension and a sense of imminent danger. A subtle combination of tasteful music, believable sound effects, artistic level design, Read the rest of this entry »

Feb 26

The media often blames violence in video games to kids playing Mature rated video games. According to a 2011 study by the Federal trade Commission, stores are much more sensitive of the ESRB ratings. Secret shoppers found that only 13 of the 13 to 16 year olds, who attempted to buy M-rated games, walked away with their purchase. In 2000, a similar study found 86 percent of underage kids scored adult themed games.

Does the improving recognition of ESRB ratings prove game rating actually work? The drastic improvement certainly proves the ESRB is doing its job. But the ratings Read the rest of this entry »

Feb 23

If you’re thinking about advertising your business on TV, you don’t want to just set up a commercial and hope for the best. Instead, you’re going to want to take your time and research your audience to ensure that you’re reaching the right people. If you’re asking yourself how you can reach these people, here are some tips that you can use in order to effectively reach them:

What do they want? The first thing that you want to ask yourself is what your customer wants? What is going to motivate them Read the rest of this entry »

Feb 21

Western game development and Eastern game development have historically been linked to different industries: PC games and console games. Eastern game development has traditionally dominated console games, which gave Western developers the opportunity to rise in the comparatively ignored industry of PC gaming.

With ports between consoles and PCs becoming more popular, the sharp line between the two industries has somewhat faded. Because of this, and the global nature of the industry, Western companies and Eastern companies are now playing Read the rest of this entry »

Feb 20

In recent years, viral marketing has proven itself as a viable and cost effective way to advertise a product with less investment than other media. Hollywood studios and Indie filmmakers alike have taken advantage of viral marketing with films such as The Dark Knight and District 9 with great success.
One must wonder why video games in general have not used this tool, one that has proven to be so effective for film and television. Some gaming companies have Read the rest of this entry »