Darkfall

It is only 6 weeks until 2009 and Darkfall is allegedly launching in 2008.

That does not give them a lot of time if they are planning on having boxes in stores.

I suspect that if this game launches this year it will be via download only.  In fact I wouldn't be surpised if it was a free download and you can then buy the client and subscribe if you like the game.

Does anyone suspect that this will be download only?

I dont see any reason why they should use boxes in stores. Its soon 2009 for gods sake. Download only.

Should have put in the option, won't be out this year, hehe. I expect a download only regardless of the time it is released (if it is). They don't really have the funds or staff, ability, whatever for a box release i think.

I expect  one of the two scenarios

There will be trial client.  You download and use the client, but are limtied to either locations/abilities or some other restrictrion.

After your trial is complete you may continue to use the product for $40 for the first month, and 15/month after that.

OR

Two clients -Trial - Retail.

The retail client is an extension of the trial, and unlocks the rest of the features in the game.

It's going to depend on where you live and what publishing arrangements they're making. In the U.S. probably download only at first.

Originally posted by zymurgeist

It's going to depend on where you live and what publishing arrangements they're making. In the U.S. probably download only at first.

I think this has to be the case because last I heard they haven't even secured the rights to the name "Darkfall" in the U.S.

I expect it to remain direct download like EVE for awhile.

Direct Download for numeous reasons, many of which have already been mentioned in this thread.

Maybe some EU folk see some boxes, but for us yanks...i would be shocked to see anything but digital download, especially if you want to play on EU serves on launch.

Originally posted by zymurgeist

It's going to depend on where you live and what publishing arrangements they're making. In the U.S. probably download only at first.

I agree. Possibly boxes in certain parts of Europe, definitely d/l in US and Oceania

There will definitely only be a direct download for the US, and Oceanic: but as others have said, there should be some type of boxed release in some parts of Europe seeing as they have a European distributor deal.. Although I believe they would probably be better off just going with the download option seeing, at least as of now, they don't have a huge distribution deal (zero announcements/pre-release announcements with any major European game retailers, easily researchable on the web).  I believe 99% of those who will buy Darkfall already know about the game and will most likely use the digital download distribution method rather than try to track it down in stores, and I doubt this game will attract/retain casual gamers that might buy the game randomly off of a store shelf.  I think going solely the download method would free up more assets to further their game with rather then spend the money to box the game and place it on the shelves hoping people that might not of heard of Darkfall purchase the product.