Look guys, of course they can technically - and they even might do if people dont buy enough subscriptions.
They can still make tons of money by charging us for the software updates - something they have actually never done before (charging for a software update) and something that clickteam fusion and game maker have always done.
Instead they decided to go directly for the subscription model, because if adobe and autodesk does it, why not scirra too.
Except the free hook in this case (construct3 editor free edition) is weak - especially when compared to the nearest similar product sale approach - stencyl.
Stencyl has no limitations on the free edition and even exports to flash in it. The subscription there is to get the professional export capabilities- which btw there are native exporters. You can start paying it after the free editor has gotten you hooked in a project you are making and deeply invested in.
You can't get invested in an editor that limits how many events you can use.
Scirra believes this will make more money, but is approaching it in a very clumsy way. The announcement, the lack of a good hook.
I think stencyl , adobe and autodesk all have professional marketing departments who know their product well, their users well and competition well. They know exactly how to push their subscription - what to offer and how to offer it - how much to give and how much to take.
Scirra is making mistakes so far - sure. But how else can you learn - you try things.
We will see how it goes after a year or two. It might do, it might not.
The thing is - regardless of how you feel - this is how it is going to be. You can accept it or move on
I am curious yes, but not convinced. Will spend that money on something I can keep