Next-gen systems as entertainment devices is "a perilous idea," - Spector

Warren Spector feels the idea of next-gen systems being entertainment devices rather than gaming consoles is "a perilous idea."

Speaking with Gamespot, Spector said he already has "more ways than I can deal with" in regard to accessing programming or the Internet.

"I think next gen consoles as entertainment devices rather than game machines is a perilous idea," he said. "I mean, I already have more ways than I can deal with to access the programming I want and the Internet and all its pleasures. And if I want to multitask while watching television, I already have to decide which of my devices to do it on.

"I kind of get a next-gen game machine, but competing for the home entertainment business? We'll see how that goes."

Spector said he is also wary of more games being released digitally, as you can't own a set of "0s and 1s."

"I'm a huge fan of e-books, but the more I buy and download, the more I worry that someone could just take them all away from me," he said. I worry a lot about not owning things I've paid for. I suppose if the cost came down--way down!--I might worry about it less. But it's a huge concern.

"Having said that, I think that boat has sailed. We live in a world of virtual goods where none of us own the 0s and 1s. What are you going to do?"

Spector is also encouraged by the "broad acceptance" of games in the current climate, and pleased that "nearly everyone is a gamer" out there, thanks to consoles, mobile, and tablet devices. However, he said the industry needs to take advantage of this, and not "remain mired exclusively in the world of teenage male power fantasies."

He also believes Nintendo "a company dedicated to games," and one who underestimates them do so at their peril.

It's a really interesting interview, and you should head on through the link and give it a read.