EA warns, 'releasing new IP this late in console cycle is a mistake'

President of EA Labels Frank Gibeau has warned that launching new IP so late in the current console cycle is a mistake, and that developers should be using this time to hone their existing products.

Just don't tell that to Dishonored studio Arkane Frank.

In a GI.biz interview, Gibeau stated, "The time to launch an IP is at the front-end of the hardware cycle, and if you look historically the majority of new IPs are introduced within the first 24 months of each cycle of hardware platforms."

"Right now, we're working on three to five new IPs for the next gen, and in this cycle we've been directing our innovation into existing franchises," he added.

Gibeau was careful to avoid ruling out late new IP altogether, as there is quite a bit out there at the moment. He stated that performance will suffer, more than anthing, "as much as there's a desire for new IP, the market doesn't reward new IP this late in the cycle. They end up doing okay, but not really breaking through."

On the subject of next-gen, Gibeau stated that the rise in the number of gamers had created chaos, and a floundering approach to driving the industry forward. But that madness has almost subsided.

"From this chaos, you're going to get a new order," Gibeau explained, "a new approach, that's going to be a very vibrant time for games.. Yes, there's chaos right now, but a golden age is coming."

Cheers OXM.