I doubt that it would be technically possible even to pay 3PA people. In effect they would then be ISI employees, and then you can start to question whether they can release unlicensed content like Suzuka as "mods", when normally every bundled real-life track in modern sims needs the license from track owner. This 3PA program is also a way of avoiding license issues.
I don't quite follow you, Marc. Why ISI should pay for modders or outsource anything..? Why you think rF2 is different than any other moddable platform? What are those circumstances you are referring to? I build tracks just for fun and if someone else enjoys them, that is a bonus. I could write a novel about my modding motivation, pushing technological limits forward and developing myself as an 3D artist, but this thread is not right place to it. Maybe this 3PA conversation needs own thread instead of this one.
Because if content is distributed as part of the official release (or subscription on Steam), assuming it is therefore graded to be sufficient quality to make it part of the core package, anyone providing that content deserves some recognition. Under any other circumstance, the publisher would have to pay for that content that enhances (or completes) their own product. Modders can do what they want and distribute on their own and it is therefore a "take it or leave it" prospect. We are owed nothing for content we did not pay for, so whatever is there is free to be used or not. We paid for the initial title with some expectation of what will be included. If ISI has convinced some modders that they should still work for free as a hobby, but get the "privilege" of having their work included as official or semi-official content as some sort of reward or status symbol, but it comes at no cost (only benefit) to ISI...that sounds like a bad deal to me. I am not talking about paying huge amounts, but at least an honorarium payment should be part of the deal. Just my opinion, no need to argue. But I wanted to explain myself since you asked.
I'm almost certain they are. I know of a certain modder that has pushed back other mods to create 3PA mods here.... because it was paying......unless he lied for absolutely no reason, of course.
3PA stuff aside, the track team have been very quiet lately on Twitter. I figured after Toban and AMP we might be seeing another new track from them this year.
Guys, is this Suzuka??? https://twitter.com/ISITrackTeam/status/743506856014974976 https://twitter.com/ISITrackTeam/status/743530087417581572
Dont take my word i know nothing. but since Sao Paulo was from Reiza. It wouldnt suprise me if this an edited Kansai from their title. I could be way off and look a right nob when it releases but just taking a guess.
AAaaand right on cue i look a right nob. The circuit is released and it shows a very awesome looking GT500 car driving round. Hope that comes soon! [/url] BIG THANKS Woochoo!