According to infamous crystal ball analyst Michael Pachter in Develop Online, Electronic Arts president John Riccitiello confided in him about his anxiety that he'll be fired due to the low stock price of the company. I'm not sure I would air my colleague's personal feelings so openly, but there it is.
Though EA's earnings have increased, its stock is still at an all-time low, perhaps showing that investors are weary of video game companies and its high-risk business model.
John Riccitiello, however, believes that the length of the current console cycle has "contributed to sequelitis", citing Guitar Hero and the music genre in general as the prime example.
[I]n 2008, when we said it’ll be a three-year turnaround, I thought new consoles were coming out in 2010-2011.
I must say, though, that sequelitis doesn't lose its effect over console generations; in fact, the launch lineup of almost new console are chock full of sequels and ports. If you don't want sequelitis, make new properties and follow through on good ideas. On that note, sequels aren't a problem if they're executed properly.
How do you think Electronic Arts should improve its stock price?
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