There are always alternatives available that the gaming industry has sort of forgotten about. One such tactic is to compile a lot of lesser games in to one package. The console companies have the privledge of releasing demo discs, since discs are so cheap to produce. However, they could always be brave and release multi-game discs. These discs could contain dozens upon dozens of smaller, less main stream games that cover a wide range of ideas. Such games would not require a million dollar budget. Nor, should they need such a programming staff. In essence, they are simplified games. Besides, should one or two of those games show significant approval by the gaming audience, they could go on in full fledged sequels for a higher price tag. If distribution of such discs is a problem in the stores, (Why should it be? PlayStation Underground discs make it to the shelves, after all.) such discs could be released as a sort of monthly/semi-monthly/semi-yearly gaming disc magazine. Or, even as a net distribution through the newer system modem/HDD technology. (X-Box/PS2/who knows what newer systems may come.) After all, many game making companies have their roots in such smaller, multiple releases of concept games. I even saw the E-Reader device as another potential method for releasing simple, unique games in a very low cost method. (Except for the fact that the unit is a little too simplistic and has already been outdated.)

And, who is to say that it's too late for a totally low cost, lesser technology kind of console to arrive on the scene with a programming friendly language to encourage third companies (or even home brewed games) to start creating games for it...ones that don't take years to build and mega bucks to release. We are experiencing a retro view on gaming, right now.