It's almost a progression of events: Multiplayer-LAN, Online-multiplayer (local hosting), Online-Multiplayer (Local OR Dedicated-host), Multiplayer-Online (Mandatory-Dedicated-Host), Subscription-Game.
And no, I don't mean to imply that Subscription gaming is superior to any of the former.
Simply put, if it's possible to provide the same experience but not cost the user more, then it's the logically superior model (for the user; the reverse is better for the developer).
Historically, subscription games rely almost exclusively on grind to keep their playerbase hooked for longer periods of time; with Ranking/Unlockables, that grind element is already seeping through into many of the popular FPS titles.
Still, it seems stupid to force players into a hierarchical system in a genre that works best when it's based on competing on execution.
Based on that criteria, I don't like grind in my games and I certainly wouldn't pay on a subscription model for it when I can do better already elsewhere.
And no, I don't mean to imply that Subscription gaming is superior to any of the former.
Simply put, if it's possible to provide the same experience but not cost the user more, then it's the logically superior model (for the user; the reverse is better for the developer).
Historically, subscription games rely almost exclusively on grind to keep their playerbase hooked for longer periods of time; with Ranking/Unlockables, that grind element is already seeping through into many of the popular FPS titles.
Still, it seems stupid to force players into a hierarchical system in a genre that works best when it's based on competing on execution.
Based on that criteria, I don't like grind in my games and I certainly wouldn't pay on a subscription model for it when I can do better already elsewhere.