A Profusion of Philanthropy
Just as in journalism, the role of philanthropic organizations can’t be understated. Games tackling serious subjects, like climate change, or those supporting literacy, education, and skill development are produced worldwide with the assistance of governments, universities, and grants. These nonprofit projects are meant to appeal to distinct market segments. Philanthropic support also integrates into software distribution. Initiatives like the Humble Bundle51 have users pay what they want for a predetermined package of games. Part of the proceeds goes to the developers and bundlers, part to the Electronic Frontier Foundation, and, sometimes, a portion to other philanthropic organizations. In constantly updating the bundles, this system brings together indie developers, philanthropists, and players in ever-changing configurations (and has generated quite a few clones).