'No dramatic shift in next-gen software monetization', expects Kotick

Numerous new business models have penetrated the games industry in recent years, but Activision CEO Bobby Kotick says he doesn't expect any 'dramatic changes' in the way you'll pay for games on consoles.

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"I can't comment specifically on the next generation consoles, but our general view is, we approach new business models skeptically, and we take our time and we look for those that will turn out to be something that is sustainable for the long term," said Kotick during an earnings call today."I think we're seeing a lot of exciting new ways for customers to pay for their experiences, there are a lot of new ways for us to monetize our content, but I can't say that you're going to see any dramatic shifts in the way things are monetized on consoles," he added.The emerging free-to-play business model has already impacted console gaming on current-generation machines, particularly on PS3 with major releases such as DC Universe Online, Dust 514 and Free Realms.Meanwhile, Activision has seen the loss of 1.3 million World of Warcraft subscribers in three months - one of a narrowing selection of MMOs still using a subscription model.

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