Sony’s PlayStation has had a tumultuous journey with its live-service strategy over the past year. Within a short period, the company made headlines by canceling the highly anticipated multiplayer component of *The Last of Us*, which was expected to be its flagship live-service offering. In a further setback, the game *Concord* faced an unfortunate fate, being withdrawn from digital marketplaces just two weeks post-launch. Despite these challenges, PlayStation managed to achieve a significant milestone with *Helldivers 2*, which sold 12 million copies within its first three months and set a record as the fastest-selling game in the platform’s history.
Given this mixed track record, PlayStation seems to be approaching its currently developing live-service projects with heightened caution. Among these is Haven Studios’ upcoming title, *Fairgames*. To achieve success in today’s competitive landscape, live-service games must possess a distinctive element that sets them apart. *Fairgames* features a PvPvE heist mechanism that offers engaging gameplay, but it could enhance its appeal by integrating a classic game mechanic from the iconic *Call of Duty* franchise.
Drawing Inspiration: *Fairgames* and *Call of Duty: Black Ops* Wager Matches
Understanding Wager Matches in *Call of Duty: Black Ops*
Introduced in the 2010 title, *Call of Duty: Black Ops*, Wager Matches offered a unique twist where players could gamble their in-game currency, CoD Points, within competitive game modes. Participants would enter with a buy-in specific to their chosen mode, and only the top-ranking players would walk away with a share of the pot. The dynamics were straightforward: the first-place player earned 50% of the total bounty, with 30% going to the second place, and 20% to the third, while the remaining competitors left empty-handed.
Players could select from several party modes, including favorites like Sticks and Stones, Gun Game, and Sharpshooter, with varying levels of buy-ins that ranged from low stakes to high stakes, providing options for both cautious and thrill-seeking players. In its early days, CoD Points were an easily obtainable currency, allowing players to engage in wagering without risking their hard-earned resources.
However, the Wager Matches phenomenon has not resurfaced in subsequent *Call of Duty* titles, primarily due to the shift towards real currency transactions replacing in-game earnings.
Innovating Wager Match Mechanics in *Fairgames*
Based on the early visuals and insights released in May 2023, *Fairgames* centers on competitive heists where teams collaborate to rob the affluent while fending off rival crews. To augment this premise, the integration of a betting mechanism inspired by *Call of Duty: Black Ops*’ Wager Matches could transform the gameplay experience.
Imagine before embarking on a heist in *Fairgames*, players could utilize their in-game currency to wager on various match parameters—like successfully escaping within a designated time or neutralizing specific opponents with certain weapons. Completing these challenges could lead to greater financial rewards, allowing players to purchase upgrades and customize their gear, thereby enhancing engagement in the live-service loop over time.
*Fairgames* is currently under development for PlayStation 5 and PC platforms.
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