A reader expresses frustration over the prevalence of video game leaks, blaming publishers for failing to maintain secrecy. The recent announcement of Assassin's Creed Black Flag Resynched serves as a prime example, as the game had been heavily leaked for three years, with new leaks appearing just hours before the official reveal. While the reader is interested in the remake, the constant drip-feed of information has diminished its impact.
The Problem with Rumours
Many gamers complain that too much news is based on rumours, but when those rumours are consistently accurate, it becomes difficult for websites to ignore them. Trusted outlets like GameCentral try to report only believable leaks, but the result is that there are no more secrets. Instead of exciting teaser trailers and live presentations, reveals are reduced to a series of fragmented leaks over months, robbing announcements of their impact.
Examples of Leaks Ruining Surprises
For instance, Leon's inclusion in Resident Evil Requiem was leaked years in advance, with constant back-and-forth about his role. By the time it was officially confirmed, it felt like old news. Japanese companies tend to be better at keeping secrets, but even they are slipping. Rumours of a new Star Fox game are already circulating, and while Nintendo might delay it to prove the rumour wrong, the existence of the game seems likely.
Why Don't Publishers Stop Leaks?
The reader questions why companies don't take stronger measures. If employees faced financial penalties for leaking, they would be more careful. Yet leaks continue through datamining, job ads, and even references in game code. Developers often leave clues in their software, knowing fans will find them, without attempting to hide or rename them. Job advertisements frequently reveal unannounced projects, yet this pattern persists.
The Decline of Game Reveals
Many lament the death of E3 and the shift to pre-recorded videos instead of live streams. There is a lack of effort in building hype or maintaining secrecy. The reader contrasts this with the past, where reveals were exciting events. However, there is hope: Activision recently managed to stop Call of Duty leaks entirely, proving that it is possible if a company prioritizes it.
Conclusion: A Call for Change
The reader argues that if publishers put in the effort to prevent leaks, the excitement for new games would increase. The success of Activision's crackdown on Call of Duty leaks suggests that other companies could follow suit. Ultimately, the constant flow of rumours undermines the magic of game announcements, and it is up to publishers to restore that sense of surprise.
