Desura’s future in the video game industry will depend on its ability to adapt, innovate and satisfy the desires of an ever-evolving community of players
The story of Desura, once a marginal player in the digital game distribution sector, tells a fascinating journey of resilience and innovation, marked by a courageous evolution towards free online games. Initially, Desura stood out for its unwavering support of independent developers, offering an alternative to Steam’s dominance and positioning itself as a beacon of hope for independent creativity. This ambition to provide a platform for the “little ones” in a world of “giants” has cemented his reputation as a catalyst for playful innovation.
Desura’s tumultuous transition, from its founding by DesuraNET to its acquisition by a Finnish entrepreneur in 2020, is testament to the challenges inherent in the digital video game industry. The periods under the leadership of Linden Lab and Bad Juju Games were particularly eye-opening, highlighting the financial and operational difficulties that can hinder a distribution platform. The failure of Bad Juju not only marked a dark moment for Desura but also underlined the fragility of businesses in this competitive space.
Desura: a new chapter in the universe of free online games
OnePlay’s move in 2016 to revitalize Desura with a subscription-based model reflected a bold attempt at redefinition in the face of adversity. However, OnePlay’s financial difficulties have illustrated the risks associated with attempts to transform in an ever-changing market. The subsequent acquisition by a Finnish investor and focus on free online games opened a new chapter for Desura, signaling a major strategic shift aimed at capturing new audiences and navigating the modern gaming landscape.
With the launch of its Kickstarter campaign, Desura isn’t just looking for funding; aims to rebuild and redefine its presence in the gaming industry. This initiative is a statement of intent, affirming Desura’s desire to remain relevant in an industry where innovation and adaptability are key. By focusing on free online games, Desura hopes to not only broaden its audience but also redefine what it means to be a game distribution platform in the digital age.
The challenge of competing with established platforms like Poki or Crazy Games is significant, but it also offers Desura the opportunity to demonstrate its value as an innovator and advocate for independent creativity. This new focus on free online games represents an attempt to capture current market trends while remaining true to the spirit of independence that characterized Desura’s early days.
Ultimately, Desura’s future in the video game industry will depend on its ability to adapt, innovate and satisfy the desires of an ever-evolving community of players. The shift to a focus on free-to-play online games is a bold bet that could redefine Desura’s position in the market and allow it to leave a lasting imprint on the history of digital gaming. By embracing change and pursuing a strategy focused on community and innovation, Desura is positioned to write an exciting new chapter in its already rich history.