Now I've always been wondering about WoW's subscriber numbers of 11.5 million (that remain rigidly the same just like OPEC's oil reserves year on year...). This guys done some research that seems to support the fact that the base is probably 2/3rds to 1/2 that now (especially just the latest expansion sales, I cannot really believe that 4.5 million people still play only the original game!).
http://daeity.blogspot.com/2010/08/blizzards-active-subscription-numbers.htmlQuote:Investor Statements
Here are their financials over the most recent 3 month period:
World of Warcraft Gross Profits: $301.75 million
So at ~$15 a month and assuming that no one buys account transfers, virtual pets or sparkly ponies that makes for 6.7 million subscribers. Pretty compelling evidence there of a decline, even the European profits were down.
I know its going to be around for a long time to come, but it looks like its been in decline now for a year, maybe finally at long last WOW will release its death grip on new MMO design?