Desura
Desura: The Digital Distribution Platform for Indie Gamers
In the ever-expanding world of digital gaming distribution, numerous platforms have arisen to cater to the diverse needs and interests of gamers. One such platform that emerged with a unique focus on independent games is Desura. This article delves into what Desura is, its history, features, and its impact on the indie gaming scene.
A Brief Introduction to Desura
Desura was a digital distribution platform for video games, primarily aimed at indie game developers and gamers who had a penchant for innovative, offbeat, and lesser-known titles. It was founded by Scott Reismanis in 2009. Desura offered a marketplace for developers to showcase and sell their games directly to consumers. The platform was known for its focus on the indie gaming community and for promoting unique, experimental, and often unconventional games.
Features and Highlights
Desura distinguished itself from other digital distribution platforms with several key features:
1. Indie Game Focus
Desura was synonymous with indie games. It provided a dedicated space for independent developers to gain visibility and recognition for their creations, fostering a strong sense of community.
2. DRM-Free Gaming
In line with the spirit of indie gaming, many titles on Desura were available without digital rights management (DRM). This approach allowed gamers more freedom with their purchases.
3. Mod Support
Desura also embraced modding and user-generated content, making it easy for players to discover and install game modifications.
4. Bundles and Sales
Desura often featured game bundles and sales that allowed gamers to acquire a variety of indie games at a discounted price.
5. Early Access
The platform supported early access games, allowing players to become part of a game's development process by testing and providing feedback on pre-release versions.
The Rise and Fall of Desura
For a while, Desura carved out a niche in the gaming community, catering to players who appreciated the unconventional. It was praised for its indie game curation and its support for modding and user-generated content. However, Desura faced challenges in maintaining a consistent and profitable business model.
In April 2015, Desura's parent company, Bad Juju Games, filed for bankruptcy, which had a direct impact on the platform. This bankruptcy disrupted the service, and many developers reported payment issues and a lack of communication. This led to the eventual shutdown of Desura in May 2016.
Legacy and Impact
Despite its closure, Desura left a lasting impact on the indie gaming community. It was a platform that championed the underdogs of the gaming world, offering a stage for developers who didn't always fit into the mold of mainstream gaming. The emphasis on DRM-free gaming and mod support resonated with players who valued freedom and creativity.
Today, many indie games initially launched on Desura have found success on other platforms, and the indie game movement continues to thrive. Desura serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by niche platforms in a highly competitive industry and the enduring spirit of indie gaming.
In conclusion, Desura was a digital distribution platform that, in its prime, played a significant role in supporting indie game developers and offering unique, DRM-free gaming experiences. While it ultimately faced difficulties and closed its doors, its legacy lives on in the world of independent game development.