Xbox 360 High Attach Rate Due to Demos and XBLA

Analysts have stated in the not so distant past that the high attach rate of the Xbox 360 is not a good sign. The attach rate is the number of games per console and for the Xbox 360 it is pegged at 5.2 games per console.  The analysts have claimed that this means only the hardcore gamers are purchasing the console which will be a problem for developers in the casual genre as well as long term sales. I think that the high attach rate could be attributed to something else. With the Xbox 360 the console section of gaming has finally been offered the capability which PC gamers have long enjoyed, DEMOS.

The introduction of free demos for the Xbox 360 has lead to increased sales. Previously demos were usually found bundled with magazines, pre-orders, and other special promotions. Now they are available without leaving the house for free. This increased exposure to games has lead gamers to be more willing to throw down the $60 that Xbox 360 games currently run.

Another factor to consider in the attach rate of the Xbox 360 is the Xbox Live Arcade. If you factor in the Arcade title purchases to the attach rate “casual” gamers may have a higher attach rate than the “hardcore” gamers.

Due to the prevelance of demos on the Xbox 360 and the inclusion of “casual games” on the marketplace, the attach rates going into this generation of hardware can not easily be compared to the attach rates of the last gen systems.

What are your thoughts on the affect of demos and the marketplace on the attach rate of the 360?

Image - Ronald Heft