According to sources, the PlayStation 4 will not be the only console stopping you from playing second hand games. Microsoft could also add this feature to their next generation console.
The main problem with re-sale is that it destroys the value placed on the game, and overtime, that value degrades to a few dollars where it was $60. Microsoft and Sony may be feeling the pressure from annoyed publishers, whose work continues to be devalued.
A simpler way to get rid of this would be to get rid of discs all together, thus the price can’t go down unless the developer/publisher sees to the price drop, or the distributor (Xbox/Sony) offers a price reduction.
The Xbox 720 is said to be ready for blu-ray discs and Microsoft will make sure you always have a stable internet connection, so you cannot get onto a game without adding a redeem code.
Microsoft will use this redeem code as an activation for the game, so nobody else can use it. This means that even if someone tries to sell you a game, it will not be usable since you will have to enter the redeem code to activate it.
Xbox 720 specs
The Xbox 720 is packing some heavy specs, according to leaks, the console will have an AMD eight-core x64 1.6GHz CPU, a D3D11.x 800MHz graphics card, and 8GB of RAM. This all points to the next-generation of consoles being powerhouses.
Kinect will also be revamped for the Xbox 720, with an improved motion sensor and less room to use the device. The Xbox 720 will be expected to launch at E3.
This move may be profitable for publishers but it certainly won’t go well with consumers, who enjoy reselling games once they have finished the game. With the Android free-to-play consoles and Steam Box launching this year and next, it may be hard for the Xbox 720 and PS4 to gain traction if both don’t allow you to resell games.
What do you think of this decision? Will you still buy the Xbox 720 if this feature is added? Tell us in the comments!
[Sources: Edge]