Upload a Photo Upload a Video Add a News article Write a Blog Add a Comment
Blog Feed News Feed Video Feed All Feeds

Folders

 

 

Is Desura Planning to Compete with Steam Again?

Published by
Running Things   Jan 25th, 12:39pm
Comments

Once a significant rival to Steam in the realm of online game sales, Desura has experienced a series of transformative events throughout its history. Initially, Desura made its mark by catering to independent game developers, offering them a specialized platform for launching their games and fostering connections with a dynamic user base. This platform was celebrated for its robust support of the community, its streamlined approach to updating games, and a wealth of resources dedicated to developers, making it a haven for indie game development.

Desura's journey, however, has been marked by several challenges. Beginning its operations under DesuraNET, the platform saw a series of changes in ownership, first falling under the umbrella of Linden Lab and later, Bad Juju Games. The acquisition by Bad Juju Games in late 2014 signaled a significant shift, as the company soon faced financial difficulties. Issues such as delayed payments to developers brought to light deeper organizational problems. The situation escalated when Bad Juju Games went bankrupt in mid-2015, leading to Desura suffering from operational disruptions and periods of instability.

In 2016, an unforeseen opportunity arose when OnePlay showed interest in acquiring Desura, intending to transform it into a subscription-based service. Yet, financial issues within OnePlay led to the abandonment of these plans. A new chapter for Desura began in 2020 when a Finnish entrepreneur, known for his anonymity and involvement in the online gaming industry, acquired the platform at an auction. This acquisition ushered in a significant strategic shift for Desura, transitioning from a game sales model to offering free online games and focusing on the development of casual gaming titles, aiming to create a more inclusive and accessible gaming environment.

Today, Desura has significantly evolved from its original concept. Maintaining its brand identity, the platform has shifted its focus primarily to online gaming. Despite past issues that alienated both users and developers, Desura is actively working to reclaim its standing in the online gaming sphere. This includes initiating a Kickstarter campaign aimed at enhancing their website, demonstrating a dedication to providing a more engaging and immersive gaming experience for users.

The success of Desura's Kickstarter campaign is pivotal for its revival, relying on substantial community backing and the fulfillment of its goals. This effort represents a combination of learning from past setbacks and a future-oriented mindset, highlighting Desura's ability to adapt and persevere. As these initiatives unfold, there are lingering questions about Desura's capacity to reassert itself as a formidable entity in the competitive online gaming market, potentially challenging platforms like Crazy Games or Poki. The story of Desura serves as a testament to the dynamic and constantly evolving nature of the digital game distribution industry.

The narrative of Desura underscores the shifting dynamics and potential within the digital game distribution field, a constantly changing landscape that presents both hurdles and opportunities for platforms such as Desura.

HashtagsNone
 
History for Running Things
YearVideosNewsPhotosBlogs
2024       5
HashtagsNone
 
 
+PLUS highlights
+PLUS coverage
Live Events
Get +PLUS!