Publications
Publications
- January 2004 (Revised October 2006)
- HBS Case Collection
Electronic Arts in Online Gaming
By: Thomas R. Eisenmann and Justin Wong
Abstract
Electronic Arts (EA), the world's largest independent video-game publisher, must decide whether to support Microsoft's initiatives in online gaming. Historically, EA has been platform-agnostic, releasing versions of its titles for all major console platforms. However, its managers have serious concerns about Microsoft's strategy for its online gaming service, Xbox Live. Microsoft has maintained tight control over game features and customer relationships and has refused to share online gaming subscription revenues with game publishers. Sony has offered terms for Playstation2 online games that are acceptable to EA. Can EA afford to forfeit sales through Microsoft's platform?
Keywords
Corporate Strategy; Technology Platform; Network Effects; Policy; Customer Focus and Relationships; Games, Gaming, and Gambling; Revenue; Segmentation; Sales; Entertainment and Recreation Industry; Electronics Industry
Citation
Eisenmann, Thomas R., and Justin Wong. "Electronic Arts in Online Gaming." Harvard Business School Case 804-140, January 2004. (Revised October 2006.)
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