Starting with the 2011 series (Madden 11, NHL 11, etc.) each game will contain a one time use code. This code will give the player access to online play and bonus content. Should you buy the game used, you will need shell out another $10 for a code if you want to play online.
Now I’m not a huge sports game player. I get NHL every year and that’s about it. But that’s not the point. It’s the concept that interests me. I’m actually surprised something like this hasn’t happened already. Not only for EA Sports, I mean for the entire gaming market.
Publishers lose money when games are sold and bought used. This code system could be a solution to the lost money. For players who focus on online play they might decide to buy it new rather than shell out for a used game PLUS the extra cash for an online code.
In all honesty I support the code idea because of the money lost from people buying used. But It can only really apply to games with a strong online presence but it’s not a bad idea. And it would not surprise me if other companies followed suit.
