Sony has been dabbling with online content codes for its recent shooters, with a single-use code in SOCOM 4: U.S. Navy SEALs giving North American players access to the SOCOM "Pro" club. Without the code, entry to the club costs $14.99, but at least there's still online play. Now Sony is ready to change things up again with its new initiative, the PSN Pass, starting with upcoming Move showcase Resistance 3.
The one-use only code included with new copies of the game will give "full access" to PlayStation Network and online functions, says Sony. As with online codes from EA, THQ and Activision, a consumer picking the game up second-hand would have to purchase a code from Sony, granting the platform holder revenue from the pre-owned sale.
Here's Sony's statement to Eurogamer. How do you feel about this development?
We are always evaluating new programs for our online offering, and starting with Resistance 3 this September, we will be instituting a network pass program for PS3 games with online capabilities.
This program will be game-specific. Games that are a part of this program will include a single-use registration code that grants the account holder redeeming the code full online access for that title.
This is an important initiative as it allows us to accelerate our commitment to enhancing premium online services across our first party game portfolio.
[source eurogamer.net]
Comments 7
Yeah, it's the same bull, aways giving us excuses to make us pay for content that are alredy inside the disc just to make the retailers life harder.
Seriously, sony disapointed me this time.
I don't mind this idea. I think it's a fair compromise between the developers making money and consumers reselling their games. If I buy new, I get to play online. I can still sell/buy a used game. When I sell, I'll make less, but when I buy, I'll pay less. I decide if the better deal for me is to buy new or used. (Might consider used, for example, when not interested in the online play.)
It's probably for the best in all honesty. More money in developers hands means more intensive to create better games. After all, they are the ones putting the time and effort to create the games, why shouldn't they be allowed to earn their keep?
seems fair to me too honestly. That's a pretty lame excuse they came up with though. "This is an important initiative as it allows us to accelerate our commitment to enhancing premium online services across our first party game portfolio." I wouldn't mind if they just clearly admitted that they are fighting against used game sales.
The idea for them to make even more money is clever I'll admit. But should be more like $5. People wont mind so much paying a small fee.
I think the idea is also to drive down used game prices, so if they offer the pass for $10 then the retailer should make the price difference $10 too. Often pre-owned games are only $2 or $5 cheaper than new, and those dollars all add up of course. Interesting discussion though and something we'll see more of in future!
So its a pass you need to play certain games online? Not sure about it...
Oh but you buy it with the game I see.
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