How can you possibly make that statement? It doesn't even exist yet, RK. It's a Google Doc form for submissions - a hastily made rip-off of a beautiful, original, well executed idea by theory11. Take a step back for a moment and respect creativity, respect originality, and most of all, respect theory11. If you thought of something new and worked on it for years to polish and execute the idea, how would you like to see it copied and butchered a week later?
Oh I respect creativity and originality. I'm a creator myself. Kudos to Theory11 for being the first to come up with this idea. You can hardly blame Penguin, though, they have to do something to keep up. I will say this, though, - I won't use either Penguin or The Wire for any of my effects without first seeing if they can be published and professionally produced directly through E, PCP, T11 or whoever else. Let me elaborate on my original post.
Here are the reasons why I like Penguins more than The Wire.
1. Obviously, 70% as opposed to 60% is given to the creator.
2. You get your own private discussion forum. Depending how good (or bad) your effect is will depend on the activity here. Also, if your effect has a lot of room to get creative, you can use this to discuss these types of ideas amongst those who perform your effect.
3. You get your own custom magitar. Maybe this is a stupid reason but since they started making these for their artists, I've wanted one!
4. I love the sales tracking.
5. I believe that more magicians shop with Penguin. This means more exposure, and
potentially more sales.
6. (Don't quote me on this one) but from the sounds of it, your effect will be on the front page of the site as opposed to being inside a little section called The Wire
7. Not only are they only taking 30% but they will also stock your own actual DVD's and gimmicks and ship them out for you as opposed to only being able to produce downloads.
8. And most of all, I like it because it works on my computer. I think Theory11 has gotten TOO focused on high quality. The only reason I have gotten to see The Wire is because I have looked on my friends computer that is built. Otherwise, it (as well as some preview videos for effects) won't work on my computer.
Lastly, you can't blame Penguin for this; It's business. Look at it this way - Apple released the iPad, practically a whole new type of computer. Now, you see that HP, Samsung and others have released their own versions of the touch pad. Why? Because it's business. They have to do something to keep up with Apple. If they don't, they are losing potential sales, potential customers as well as money.