Harold Ryan noted the live-service model is beneficial for specific games but cautioned against its universal application. He observed consumer behavior indicating dissatisfaction with numerous live-service titles. Many games in this genre are underperforming, while only a few dominate the playtime statistics. Ryan linked this trend to market demand for simpler, linear games, as exemplified by 2K's Mafia: The Old Country. After leaving Bungie, he founded ProbablyMonsters to support developers. Although he remains open to creating another live-service game, he stressed the importance of aligning game concepts with audience expectations.
"I think that model is appropriate for some games, but I don't think it's appropriate for all games... consumers are telling us it's not appropriate for all consumers."
A relatively small number of live-service games are making up a big proportion of play time, explaining why other games in the genre aren't faring as well.
Part of the reason why 2K's Mafia: The Old Country was priced at $50 is because the publisher believes there is an audience for less-expensive, more linear games.
Ryan indicated he would consider making another live-service game if he identified the right idea and audience, emphasizing the need for appropriate focus.
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