EA Sports is going after the used game market with a one-time only sale code that will come with all their games. Starting with the upcoming release of Tiger Woods PGA Tour 11 for XBOX360 and Playstation3, the publisher will introduce a new ‘Online Pass’ – which is a one-time registration code, included with each brand new copy of their game. This code allows players to access the publisher’s online services and features, up to and including bonus content.
Those who decide to wait out the big name games to buy used can buy an Online Pass for an additional $10 directly from EA. This pass will be implemented for the upcoming NCAA Football, NHL, Madden NFL, NBA and FIFA 11 titles for 2010. The pass will offer different features for each title, however those who buy it used will not have access to basic multiplayer features.
You will be unable to play multiplayer online game modes or use your downloaded content in online game modes.
Online leagues, dynasty and franchise modes are also only available with the Online Pass. The break down for each title can be seen on the publisher’s official website.
“This is an important inflection point in our business because it allows us to accelerate our commitment to enhance premium online services to the entire robust EA SPORTS online community,” said Peter Moore, President of EA SPORTS.
Despite being the leader in used game sales, retailer GameStop, which acknowledged that it plans to focus on digital content in the future, supports Electronic Arts’ new direction.
“GameStop is excited to partner with such a forward-thinking publisher as Electronic Arts,” said Dan DeMatteo, Chief Executive Officer of GameStop Corp. “This relationship allows us to capitalize on our investments to market and sell downloadable content online, as well as through our network of stores worldwide.”
How will this effect your wallet, or other publishers? More money for used EA Games. The question remains whether or not other publishers will follow suite with a ‘one-time’ activation code.
Source: EA Games