Apple, Google Vying For Mobile Game Exclusivity 52
An anonymous reader writes "Here's an interesting look at the battle for mobile video game money between Google and Apple. 'Last August, for the launch of "Plants Vs. Zombies 2," a highly anticipated sequel to a popular zombie-survival strategy game, publisher Electronic Arts Inc. struck a deal with Apple, which promoted the game prominently in its App Store, according to people familiar with the matter. In exchange, one of these people said, EA agreed to give Apple about a two-month window of exclusivity for the title, which wasn't released on Google's Android software until October.'"
Too bad it sucked (Score:5, Informative)
because of micropayment hell.
Was looking forward to it and would have paid for it. It as good time waster when flying.
As a developer who uses in-app purchase ... (Score:3, Informative)
Personally, in the things I publish, ex Perpenso Calc [perpenso.com], a RPN Sci Stat Biz Hex Bill/Tip calculator that supports fractions and complex numbers, I like the idea of two apps. A fully paid app that is ad free and includes all functionality and a second free app that has only basic functionality, scientific functionality, but is expandable and ads are removable (Biz, Hex etc are in-app purchase). The later lets people try things out. As an incentive to buy the fully paid version I offer it at a bundled price, less than if all in-app purchases are made in the free version.
I understand the controversy but this is the best solution I've come up with so far. I would be happy to hear other suggestions.