Live service games, also known as “games as a service” or simply GaaS, are video games that are designed to be continually updated and expanded with new content, features, and functionality. These games are typically multiplayer-focused, and they are designed to keep players engaged over a long period of time. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what live service games are, how they work, and why they’re becoming increasingly popular in the gaming industry.

What are Live Service Games?

Live service games are games that are designed to be played over an extended period of time, usually several months or years. Unlike traditional AAA games, which are released once and then forgotten about, live service games are continually updated with new content, mechanics, and features. This can include things like new characters, maps, game modes, weapons, and more.

Live service games are typically built around a central concept or theme, such as a first-person shooter or a massively multiplayer online game. They are designed to be played with other people, and they often encourage players to work together in order to achieve a common goal. For example, a live service game might have players working together to defeat a major boss or conquer a certain area of the game world.

How Do Live Service Games Work?

Live service games are built on a foundation of regular updates and content releases. These updates are typically released on a regular schedule, such as monthly, and they can range from small bug fixes to major content expansions. In order to keep players engaged, developers of live service games will often tease upcoming updates and features, giving players a reason to keep playing.

The most successful live service games also include some form of microtransactions. These are in-game purchases that allow players to buy new items or cosmetics for their characters. While microtransactions have been controversial in the past, they have become an essential part of the live service game model. By allowing players to engage with the game on a deeper level, developers are able to keep players invested in the game for longer periods of time.

Why are Live Service Games Popular?

Live service games have become increasingly popular in recent years for a variety of reasons. First and foremost, they offer an experience that is different from traditional AAA games. Rather than playing through a linear story, live service games offer a more open-ended experience that can be tailored to the individual player’s preferences.

Another reason why live service games have become so popular is because of the social aspect of these games. Many live service games are designed to be played with other people, and they often encourage players to form communities and build relationships with other players. By offering a social experience that extends beyond the game itself, live service games are able to create a sense of loyalty and investment in the game.

Finally, live service games are popular because they offer a level of innovation and creativity that traditional AAA games often lack. Because live service games are designed to be continually updated and expanded, developers have the freedom to experiment with new features and mechanics. This can lead to some truly unique gameplay experiences that are not found in other types of games.