Why Do The Touhou Games Never Go On Sale

Caroline Mae

2 min read

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27-12-2024

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The enduring popularity of the Touhou Project series, a collection of bullet-hell shoot 'em ups developed by Team Shanghai Alice, often leads to the question: why are these games rarely, if ever, discounted? The answer isn't simple, but it boils down to a combination of factors revolving around the unique nature of the series and its creator's business practices.

The Independent Developer Advantage

Unlike major studios with pressure from publishers, Zun, the sole developer behind Touhou, has complete autonomy over pricing and distribution. He's not beholden to marketing quotas or sales targets mandated by a larger company. This allows him to set prices that directly reflect his perceived value of his work and maintain consistent profitability without the need for sales.

A Dedicated and Understanding Fanbase

The Touhou Project boasts a remarkably dedicated and understanding fanbase. Many players appreciate the games for their challenging gameplay, unique aesthetic, and rich lore. This loyal following is willing to pay full price, fueling the continued success of the series without the necessity of price reductions. This contrasts sharply with the pressure many developers face to run frequent sales to attract new players or boost revenue.

The Nature of the Games Themselves

The Touhou games are relatively inexpensive compared to many modern AAA titles. The low price point, coupled with the inherent replayability due to their difficulty and hidden content, makes the price tag easily justifiable for many players. A sale, therefore, would not significantly boost sales numbers while potentially devaluing the work in the eyes of its fanbase.

The Importance of Fan-Made Content

A significant aspect of the Touhou Project's success stems from the massive amount of fan-made content it generates, including music, art, and games. This vibrant community adds immense value to the franchise, bolstering its longevity and popularity without the need for the creator to actively participate in frequent sales events.

Maintaining Artistic Integrity

Finally, it's plausible that Zun prioritizes artistic integrity and maintaining a certain level of control over his creations' market presence. Frequent sales can often feel impersonal and detract from the artist's vision. By avoiding sales, he preserves the perception of the Touhou games as valuable and carefully curated works.

In conclusion, the lack of sales for Touhou games is likely a strategic decision based on a combination of factors including the independence of the developer, a loyal fanbase, the accessible price point, a thriving fan community, and a desire to preserve the perceived value of the games themselves. While it may frustrate some players looking for a discount, it's a testament to the unique and successful approach employed by Zun and Team Shanghai Alice.