Brigid at Mangablog talks about the new “emanga” service from DMP, where readers can “rent” access to a currently-limited library of various yaoi and “how to draw” titles and brings up the monetization factor. DMP is charging around $4 for 72 hours access to their files through a proprietary Flash-based reader (like Zuda,) which is certainly long enough to read the latest installation of Super Sad Willowy Dudes, but seems a bit steep, as it’s between 20-40% of the retail price of a paperback volume. As Brigid points out, it’s almost like they’re aiming at young people who can’t bring the comics into their home for whatever reason, but what teenager has access to the debit or credit card that allows them to buy points at the site? It may be greater than I suspect.
A strange, bold move. I’m curious to see if they’ll be able to monetize their niche market. I don’t want to predict failure yet, as a subculture as devoted as those who read and enjoy yaoi may be willing to pay a higher premium on getting their fix.
