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Is F2P the only way? $3.99 Out There was "profitable 3 weeks after release"

Developer Michael Peiffert waves the premium flag

Is F2P the only way? $3.99 Out There was "profitable 3 weeks after release"

The developer behind iOS and Android space epic Out Therehas claimed the game's fortunes have not been harmed by its premium nature, with the $3.99/£2.49 release having started to turn a profit just three weeks post launch.

Speaking to PocketGamer.biz in our latest 'making of' feature, Michael Peiffert said there were "many different reasons" as to why he chose to make Out There a premium release, with the fact launching a freemium game "asks a lot of money" coming top of the pile.

However, he dismissed the notion that going premium had held the game back, despite the continued prevalence of free-to-play releases.

Money matters

"Freemium games are designed around the goal of making money," detailed Peiffert in the interview.

"Out There was designed to offer a full and unique experience. The game would not make much sense if we were selling fuel as in-app purchases instead of leaving the player drifting in the void forever.

"As a two-man studio, we don't need to make millions to be profitable. Out There was profitable three weeks after release."

Indeed, though the games press typically focuses on free-to-play's big hitters – Clash of Clans, Puzzle & Dragons and Candy Crush Saga springing to mind – recent chatter amongst developers suggest that most are aware that multi-million revenues are likely beyond them.

There is increasing awareness, however, that there's money enough to be made from premium games aimed at more modestly sized audiences.

"It's weird to think that freemium publishers have arrived to a point where they buy their players. I don't want to be part of this," he added. "We worked hard on this game, took insane risks and we are glad players loves it and pay for it."

You can read the full interview with Peiffert here.

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With a fine eye for detail, Keith Andrew is fuelled by strong coffee, Kylie Minogue and the shapely curve of a san serif font.