14 DAY TRIAL // The rumor that the next Xbox console would have technology that prevents used games from being played on it has gotten some people very excited, as Volition designer Jameson Durall believes it will finally help developers gain more money from their hard work.
The used game business allows plenty of gamers to save money when buying second hand copies of titles instead of new, full priced versions. As you can imagine, most gamers got really angry when a rumor surfaced that the next Xbox would have a system that would prevent it from playing used titles.
Actual game developers, like Volition’s Jameson Durall, believe such a technology would do wonders for studios that need plenty of money to ensure they’ll continue to deliver quality experiences.
Speaking on the AltDevBlog, Durall said that, while he admitted some gamers wouldn’t like it, eliminating used games would fuel the games industry and would result in more high quality titles.
"There's another big rumor about the next Xbox console that could really start to shake things up... it won't play used games at all," Durall said. "Personally I think this would be a fantastic change for our business and even though the consumers would be up in arms about it at first... they will grow to understand why and that it won't kill them."
Durall points out that Microsoft can just employ a new version of the codes strategy it’s been using with downloadable content.
"The system is already there for Microsoft, all they'd have to do is use the DLC and codes model they have to tie a game to your Xbox live account,” he highlighted. "Each retail disc would likely need that unique key somewhere in the code so the account would be able to link it properly. Ideally it would tie a full version to the console it is registered on so family members can play even if the main account isn't signed in, but this is exactly how their model works now anyway."
Durall also mentions that a sort of rental service could be worked out by Microsoft, allowing console owners who already have a game to share it for a limited time with their friends.
The Volition developer concludes by saying that used games need to be eliminated in order to solve the triple-AAA console gaming business.
"People often don't understand the cost that goes into creating these huge experiences that we put on the shelves for only $60. They also don't seem to realize how much they are hurting us when they buy a used game and how pirating a copy is just plain stealing."
We already talked about the used game business, with its good and bad points, so feel free to share your own thoughts on the issue, below.