Riccitiello: "The future is here"
EA head John Riccitiello has said fancy new hardware isn't necessary to foster innovation within the games industry.
"There’s never 'enough' innovation and we should always be setting the bar higher," the executive told Industry Gamers. "What I don't agree with is the implication that we're waiting for the hardware guys to transition to help us realize the innovation.
"I think the greatest innovation in the history of gaming is occurring right now. It is happening in the cross-platform arena — where Publishers are linking the best IP from console to PC to mobile to social.
"This is hard to do, but it will change the way gamers interact with our IP."
While acknowledging the "enormous new canvases" provided by platform holders, Riccitiello reiterated that the key to innovation lies in interconnectivity.
"The future is here, and centers on creating a 24/7/365 experience and community behind the games you love," he said.
"Big game franchises have evolved from the 'one and done' model that released a new 15 hour experience ever 12-24 months. Games have evolved from a thing that you buy, to a place you go.
" ... Anytime, anyplace – you can play, track your scores and see what your friends are doing. That’s the future of gaming."
Thanks, GoNintendo.