Should Behaviour Interactive prioritize developing new game modes for Dead by Daylight or focus on expanding the existing roster of killers and survivors?

Introduction

The trade-off question at hand is whether Behaviour Interactive should prioritize developing new game modes for Dead by Daylight or focus on expanding the existing roster of killers and survivors. This scenario involves balancing content expansion with gameplay variety for a successful multiplayer horror game. I'll analyze this trade-off by examining the product context, potential impacts, and data-driven decision-making process.

Step 1

Clarifying Questions (3 minutes)

• Based on the game's current performance, I'm thinking player retention might be a key challenge. Could you share insights on our current player retention rates and how they compare to industry benchmarks?

Why it matters: Helps determine if new game modes or characters would better address retention issues. Expected answer: Retention rates are slightly below industry average. Impact on approach: Would focus on which option better improves long-term engagement.

• Considering the game's monetization model, I'm assuming character sales are a significant revenue driver. Can you confirm our primary revenue streams and their relative contributions?

Why it matters: Informs the financial impact of focusing on new characters vs. game modes. Expected answer: Character sales contribute 60% of revenue, with cosmetics and battle passes making up the rest. Impact on approach: Would influence the balance between short-term revenue and long-term player engagement.

• Looking at our development resources, I'm guessing we have separate teams for character design and game mode development. What's our current team structure and capacity for each area?

Why it matters: Helps understand the feasibility and timeline for each option. Expected answer: Dedicated character team, smaller flexible team for game modes. Impact on approach: Would affect the speed of implementation and resource allocation recommendations.

• Considering player feedback, I'm thinking there might be a vocal demand for either new characters or game modes. What are the top player requests from recent community feedback?

Why it matters: Aligns decision with player expectations and desires. Expected answer: Mixed feedback, with slightly more emphasis on new game modes. Impact on approach: Would influence prioritization and potentially suggest a hybrid approach.