The phrase describes interactive entertainment products in a state of developmental flux or known to exhibit performance issues. Such products can range from pre-release versions, like alpha or beta builds offered for testing, to fully released titles plagued by bugs, glitches, or server instability. An example would be a newly launched online multiplayer title experiencing frequent crashes and disconnects due to server overload and unoptimized code.
The presence of titles exhibiting these characteristics highlights the pressures of modern game development, including tight deadlines and the evolving expectations of consumers who often demand immediate access. Addressing and mitigating these issues is crucial for developers to maintain player satisfaction, protect their reputation, and ensure the long-term viability of their games. Historically, games were often released in a more polished state due to the limitations of distribution and the difficulty of patching after release.
