April 3 , 2008

Digital to Machanical

Fitting a Video Game into a Redemption Game Cabinet In last week’s newsletter, we talked about how the recent technology innovation is spearheading the future trends of the coin-operated gaming industry. With the recent emergence of new technologies, our industry must embrace and flow with the innovative and cutting edge technology. From the perspective of industry game designers, it is important to observe the latest trend in all areas of the industry including home console video games, which are becoming more and more popular.

In 2006, Konami launched a video game called Elebits which was released for the Nintendo's Wii. Players' mission is to use the Wii controller as a "capture gun" to interact with the environment in order to reveal hidden “Elebits” (small creatures that serve as an energy source for the world) and extract their energy. The game became really popular because of the cute character designs and simple game play that is suitable for any age. The game received excellent reviews from various game magazines, and in Japan. It also received the "Best Wii Action Game of 2006" award and a few other awards.

What is interesting is that instead of the common practice of converting arcade games titles to home game titles, Konami took this Wii game and transformed it into a ticket redemption machine. The game made its arcade debut in the recent ATEI 2008 by Konami Europe.

The redemption version has everything similar to the video version, except all the digital becomes mechanical. Players must catch the floating Eledees and stash them in the “containment unit” so that they can use their power to “light-up” the cabinet. The redemption version was marketed as a family game. Eledees redemption game rides on the reputation built from the Wii game to attract players. Players who have played the Wii will recognize the game and will want to play the redemption version. Likewise, players who have enjoyed the redemption version will want to try the Wii game. This is a win-win situation in which both the video game and the redemption game can benefit from the increased exposure of the title.

The number of home console games has by now flooded the market with huge variety of games that players can enjoy. The conversion of home console games back to arcade/redemption game is definitely unique and refreshing. Perhaps this could be the beginning of another new trend?