According to some rumors spreading around the internet, Microsoft is working on a lockout system that will prohibit you from playing second hand games. Why are you entertaining those rumors Rob? I thought you didn't do that. Well, this rumor is worth entertaining, because the consequences are dire. Assume that Microsoft works on this technology.
For years, publishers and console manufacturers have been "pissed" that they cannot get their share of the second hand market, as if they deserved one anyways. To shut down second hand video game stores, rental stores, and services like Game Fly, they want to implement a system where a video game is tagged to a certain console. Already this is a bad idea- what if someone needs to purchase a new console?
If they were to put a unique code on the disc that will only work with a particular console, I guarantee that hackers will come along and crack that. It seems moot point though- this is MICROSOFT we are talking about, and they will know if you borked something, shutting off your multiplayer.
The only reason Micosoft has for doing this is to squeeze the full price of the game out of you, the consumer, and control the prices of all video games. It is quasi-antitrust, and more akin to a monopoly. I have absolutely zero problem going to another console manufacturer if Microsoft does this, and I would hope that Sony and Nintendo use this as an advertising point.
I honestly don't know what it would do to primary game sales. This would also mean that I am forced to purchase and pay the full retail price for a brand new game. Since I don't use Microsoft gaming console products, I am worried Sony will be retarded and copy the system. As for Nintendo... I don't think they will go that road, and they better use that knowledge as a purchasing point. I look forward to hearing what Gamestop has to say about this.
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