Blizzard unsure over console MMOs
WoW makers see controller as barrier
Blizzard executive Rob Pardo believes that the traditional console control pad may be to blame for the lack of MMOs on consoles; he argues that this is the main obstacle for developers looking to create online games.
Speaking to IndustryGamers, Pardo explained: "I'd say challenge number one is the input device. So if youre going to port a game like WoW how does that work? Do you ship a keyboard and a mouse? Do you try to make a game that [adapts] to all the different controls and buttons? That's a porting issue."
Pardo continues, stating that hard-drive space is also a problem for MMOs, although this is something that could be negated via advanced 'cloud' gaming systems.
"That's something cloud computing could eventually solve, but in the current generation of consoles that's a lot to deal with," he concluded.
Blizzard have been rumoured to be working on a console MMO for some time. Clearly this title remains a far-off prospect.
Comments
Well the PS3 has native KBAM support if programmed into the game so for the Sony machine it shouldn't be a problem. Not sure if the 360 has native mouse support though? So MMO's on console could work. No need to ship a KBAM with the title either cheap as chips and nearly everybody has them anyway.
ADDITION TO ABOVE POST:
Maybe they are concerned that they cannot charge their usual monthly fee on console?