plaYce, yet aother web-based game development platform

plaYce, released its beta version to limited testers, is looking to partner up with independent developers to create games based on its world map, mirroring the real world. The plaYce player, a web browser plug-in, is required to stream its games. The demo game loads up swiftly on my GeForce 8600M GT and broad bandwidth.

The company’s business model will be based on micro-transactions, virtual goods, in-game ads, and rev-share with game developers. Developers will not be charged for the use of the platform.

The business model and how developers will embrace the idea and platform need time to test. But the graphic rendering and Downtown Defender are quite a blast. The UI is easy (very intuitive contrary to the complexity of Second Life that I am already used to). The game play (deploy attacking units and pick up supply units) is a quick fun and sustain enough interest for me to play for couple rounds. Though targeting on casual gamers, I think the theme, riding helicopter and shooting giant aliens, and the upcoming car race game are more for hardcore gamers rather than the typical casual gamers. But surely plaYce may stimulate different types of gamepaly in its 3D environment while the hit casual games so far are 2D.

Game developers can also model 3D arenas in any standard 3D modeling tool and then import it. Game arenas that “float in space” are also supported.

For more information:
TC50’s plaYce Launches Real-World, 3D Game Platform as a Service
by Roi Carthy on February 24, 2009
Other World Notes: Get 300 Beta Invites to plaYce, Another Web-Based 3D Development Platform
by Wagner James Au on March 02, 2009