Gambling on online gaming

Article Abstract:

Online gaming services promising to be viable alternatives to traditional entertainment software are flooding the market at staggering rates. While online gaming appears to be a natural progression from entertainment software, its marketing practices are uncharted compared to the proven retail distribution channel of traditional CD-ROM and console game markets. Analyst projections that the online gaming industry will reach $1.6 billion by the year 2000 are fueling increased market competition, but profitability guidelines for these start-ups have not been established. A recurring problem with online gaming is that its technology has not been able to keep up with consumer demand. The new market is limited to users that demand innovative and frequently changing services that are downloadable rather than requiring a CD-ROM component. Successful online game providers offer a ready-made base of players and dedicated servers, along with a variety of games, opponents and incentives such as contests.

Internet, Technology application, Computer sports games, Online gambling, Sports/Gambling Game, Internet/Web Technology Application

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DreamWorks deal signals evolution of Hollywood synergy

Article Abstract:

DreamWorks Interactive, a $30 million joint venture between DreamWorks SKG and Microsoft Corp, illustrates the impending convergence of Hollywood and Silicon Valley. Hollywood studios are seeking outside help for their interactive ventures. The new company will offer adventure games and multimedia software, and it will develop software to coincide with film and television offerings from the new DreamWorks studio, which was launched by Steven Spielberg, Jeffrey Katzenberg and David Geffen. Microsoft is also a minority investor in DreamWorks SKG. The idea of the Interactive company is to simultaneously develop interactive and linear versions of movies. There have so far been few highly-rated CD-ROMs released by movie studios. Hollywood studios have been putting a lot of effort into trying to attract outside developers. A CD-ROM spinoff of a movie, however, cannot be done cheaply and requires a substantial investment of money, time and technology.

AMUSEMENT & RECREATION SERVICES, Planning, Microsoft Corp., Joint ventures, MSFT, Company joint venture, Dreamworks SKG, Electronic Arts Inc. Electronic Arts Los Angeles

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Record companies line up behind enhanced CD

Article Abstract:

Record companies are planning to release music CDs under the Enhanced CD format, which combines audio with interactive text, graphics and video. The enhanced CDs can be played in CD-ROM drives or audio CD players. The titles will combine a full-length audio CD with music videos, interviews and other similar information. The Record Industry Assn of America is finalizing the standardization process for the format and Microsoft has developed an Enhanced CD authoring tool for Windows 95, called Symmetry. Most record companies have indicated that they plan on releasing Enhanced CD titles this year. Some technical problems may result, particularly because a significant installed base of CD-ROM users still use single-session drives that are unable to play the new format.

Technology development, Entertainment/hobby software, Entertainment software, Hobby software, Music software, CD-ROM mastering software, Technology Information, CD-ROM Drive, CD-ROM drives

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