Maximum Entertainment CEO Christina Seelye shared valuable insights into the mutual benefits of retail and digital game sales platforms. In a recent discussion with Game Developer at Gamescom, Seelye highlighted how physical game sales can significantly increase digital visibility and sales across platforms.
According to Seelye, platforms like Amazon and brick-and-mortar stores like GameStop play a crucial role in drawing attention to games, which in turn benefits digital distribution channels like Steam and PlayStation Network. This strategy has been repeatedly successful for Maximum Entertainment, proving that selling physical editions doesn’t detract from digital sales, but rather complements them.
The unique charm of physical games
Despite the convenience of digital downloads, Seelye points out that physical games cater to a distinct market segment that appreciates tangible products. This demographic appreciates the tactile experience of owning discs and cartridges, which publishers can leverage to enhance customer engagement through physical releases.
According to Seelye, deluxe editions of games are particularly effective because they offer collectible elements that create special experiences for the gaming community, thus maintaining interest in the game.
Challenges and Opportunities in Physical Game Publishing
While acknowledging Maximum Entertainment’s unique position, which may not be universally applicable, Seelye acknowledges the challenges associated with physical releases. Factors such as the game’s genre and the platforms it supports can complicate physical distribution. However, partnerships with companies like Limited Run can mitigate some of these challenges.
Despite these obstacles, Seelye insists that physical game sales are an integral part of the gaming industry ecosystem. The opportunity to directly engage with consumers through physical products offers substantial benefits, not only in terms of revenue, but also in improving the overall gaming experience.
Seelye reassuringly concludes that while the profit margins from physical sales may not be equal to those from digital sales, the combined benefits make the initiative worthwhile for publishers who can manage both sales channels effectively.
