I always wondered why is it that in this industry product releases can be delayed and the producers can get away with it. And when I say get away, I really don't mean that we need to go and somehow "punish" them, but it's funny how gamers have no power as consumers in discouraging the developers to delay the release date. I'm not going to name games but I it's pretty clear what I mean.

In theory, to maximize their profits, the developers should release the game as early as possible provided so that it sarts generating revenue. There is no doubt that if the developers delayed a product, in the end the decision to do so would maximize their profits (or minimize loss) in the long term.

If the game is delayed because they couldn't finish it on time then of course it makes sense to take time and, well, finish it. If the game is delayed because the holiday season is so packed all of a sudden, and sales prospects aren't so certain any more, then I suppose they'd pick a release date that's less packed and competing for our dollars is a bit easier.

The problem I have is that it seems to be so common in this industry, that i can't help it but think that they are taking advantage of our dedication to games. We don't see movies, DVD's and other entertainment products delayed that often. We do see this happen with software products though. So i guess we're just desinted to wait and wait no matter how long the develpers tease us with their "hotly anticipated" games.