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I do not like to use the term 'Free-to-play.' I have come to realize that there is a degree of insincerity to consumers with this terminology, since so-called 'Free-to-play' should be referred to more accurately as 'Free-to-start.'
Satoru Iwata
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The term 'Free-to-play' can be misleading, as it often implies a lack of cost when there are hidden expenses involved.

Satoru Iwata's quote points out the insincerity in the gaming industry's use of the term 'Free-to-play.' He emphasizes that players may believe they can enjoy a game without spending money, but in reality, these games often have monetization strategies that require additional purchases, making them more accurately described as 'Free-to-start.' This observation challenges the notion of transparency in marketing within the gaming industry.

Themes

GamingMarketingFree-To-PlayMonetizationTransparency

In practice

Example use cases

This quote could be used in a discussion about fair marketing practices in the gaming industry.

More from Satoru Iwata

On my business card, I am a corporate president. In my mind, I am a game developer. But in my heart, I am a gamer.
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If we don't take an approach that looks holistically at the form a video-game platform should take in the future, then we're not able to sustain Nintendo 10 years down the road.
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I always and strictly tell Nintendo employees never to use the term 'success' to describe our own performance.
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Video games are meant to be just one thing: Fun! Fun for everyone.
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If we reduce the number of employees for better short-term financial results, employee morale will decrease. I sincerely doubt employees who fear that they may be laid off will be able to develop software titles that could impress people around the world.
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I never think in terms of how we can compete against the other companies; rather, our primary focus is to make consumers feel the uniqueness and attractiveness of our products.
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