Rumors that The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom leaked floated around the weekend of September 13th. Leaks are hardly a new phenomenon; however, it is a sore spot in the gaming community. Whether it was a security breach, human error, or some jerk looking for clicks, eager players could have their anticipated game spoiled. While it can be frustrating, just how substantial are the stakes when a video game leaks?
Thankfully, in the case of Echoes of Wisdom, this may be more rumor than fact, but we have seen leaks of new video games over and over again.
Examples includ Mass Effect 3 when Microsoft uploaded a beta version to Xbox Live in error when it was meant for internal testing. Another more recent example was The Last of Us Part 2, where significant plot spoilers were released in 2020.
While I would never downplay the seriousness of a leak of creative property, it’s worth the discussion as to the stakes involved. One could make the argument that it would hurt sales; however, as of 2022, The Last of Us Part 2 sold 10 million units. Mass Effect 3 sits around seven million copies. It’s challenging to determine if plot leaks or accidental releases can make a dent in sales. There are factors to consider, such as the level of information spoiled in the leak and whether it is a AAA publisher with the money and infrastructure to deal with a leak versus an indie dev.
Another aspect at stake the is the gamer experience. Many of us eagerly await the next major title of our favorite franchise, and many want to avoid spoilers–a similar philosophy for cinema. When content or spoilers are leaked, they spread across the internet like a virus. Someone could easily open up their social media app and have the game spoiled for them on the spot. It can be a massive let down, although in the big picture, most of us are still going to purchase, play, and enjoy their games. But no doubt, it is a huge let down and can be incredibly frustrating–not just for the gamer but the creator, too.
Leaks stink. They suck the joy right out of the air and ruin it for everyone exposed to it. Moreover, it’s a violation of the creator’s rights to share their content on their own terms (unless it was in error). However, does it really make a difference in the larger picture? In the end, I believe the answer is relative. It doesn’t make leaks right–and I hope that improved technology will prevent future leaks.
Until then, keep on the alert for any Echoes of Wisdom leaks!
What are your thoughts on the damage video game leaks can do? Please share your thoughts with us on our Boss Rush Facebook Group or our Boss Rush Discord.
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Featured Image Source: Nintendo Everything
Sources: PC Magazine, Game Rant, Statista, Nintendo Wire
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