Ben-DutkaTwo things seem to have exploded this generation: downloadable content and special editions of big games. …so wouldn't it be logical to combine the two?
Okay, maybe not, but it might just be happening. Koku Gamer talks about a Collectors Edition of the downloadable game, Mystery Case Files: Dire Grove , and the first bonus one receives for buying the more expensive version is this- they're getting it early. That's right, even though the game isn't technically released until next month, if you're willing to spring for the $19.95 Collectors Edition, you can play it now. Other bonuses include additional gameplay and levels, behind-the-scenes footage and a strategy guide. Big Fish Games will be selling the standard edition soon for the much cheaper price of $6.99. This may be the first example of a downloadable special edition but in all reality, it very likely won't be the last. We've seen some fantastic digital titles so far and there are a few that I would've considered paying more for a Collectors Edition ( Wipeout HD and Flower come to mind), provided the extra stuff was worth it.
But I see two problems with this: firstly, one of the biggest appeals of special editions is the packaging . You know how the Collectors set for God of War III comes in a pretty Pandora's Box? Or just look at the White and Black Collectors Editions for Assassin's Creed II . All that extra physical loot is why many people lay down the extra cash; simply having a few more electronic files on your machine might not have that "must-have" quality for fans. Secondly, I've seen people complain about having to pay $10 for a digital game so they most certainly won't spring for double that price tag. However, if certain downloadable games become franchises that people continue to follow, and because we should – by all rights – value gameplay additions over cosmetic stuff, this might not be a bad idea. What say you?
