Plenty of publishers are walling off certain game content behind an "online pass," a one-use code that's included free with a retail copy but likely burnt up in that used disc you just bought for a lot less. In most cases, it covers something like online multiplayer. Not Rage.
Dirt 3 due out Tuesday, will also include a single-use code to enable online access - a growing trend, if not the new norm, in console games with heavy online components. The "VIP Pass" also comes with a set of five vehicles, and it's free in retail copies. If you get a used copy of the game and the code doesn't work,…
The occupied-America shooter Homefront will require THQ's Online Pass - a one use code that comes free in retail copies of the game - to access the game's online multiplayer. But accommodations will be made for renters or used-copy purchasers.
Take-Two Interactive, the publisher of 2K Games, 2K Sports and Rockstar Games, has told investors it's working on a way to "participate" in the used-games market but was tight-lipped about what specifically it has in mind.
Sony's European president said the company is "broadly supportive" of measures like EA Sports' Online Pass - which enables online features through a one-use code free in retail copies - and is considering them for titles like MLB The Show.
In May, THQ put UFC Undisputed 2010's online access behind a one-use code, included free in retail copies, or $5 sold online. The same now goes for WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2011, and the code's price raises to $10.
THQ's decision to put UFC Undisputed 2010's multiplayer behind a "Project $10" one-use code was controversial enough. Its slapdash implementation in the game couldn't make the publisher look worse. Update:: THQ has responded with a statement.
