The Wonders of Crowd Sourcing, And it’s Dangers

Recently a crowd sourcing campaign caught my eye on Kickstarter.com. It was for a video game console that was open for any developer to make games for. This would allow for any person, of any skill level, to make games for people to enjoy. I was personally very excited by the concept and put down $99 for a console once it was released.

The concept, as well as the video describing their facility, was very appealing to me. They showed workers piecing the consoles together and beta testing a few games. I would receive emails about the process, the occasional delay, and how long it was until I finally would get to play my console. At first I was skeptical about putting some much money down for something that didn’t yet exist, but everything seemed to be on the up-and-up. That is, until I received the final product.

When it finally came in the mail, I plugged it in and eagerly awaited to get online and start downloading some free-to-play, open source games. Yet, it was never able to connect. The console worked fine, however, what didn’t work was the consoles online infrastructure. I looked online for any answers and was greeted by many other disappointed supporters. Kickstarter was inundated with requests for answers, but all they said was that after the money was given, the company, and Kickstarter had no obligation to make good on it’s promises.

It was a shame that my first venture into crowd sourcing went they way it did. I am very happy there is a outlet for good ideas and a way for them to receive them funding. However,  websites like Kickstarter also see a share of the proceeds, so they are unlikely to pull down campaigns if they look like they wouldn’t be able to deliver. So, it is up to the consumer whether or not they wish to donate money to causes they support. Just be prepared to be disappointed, and out of pocket.

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