Sony Computer Entertainment America has confirmed that the upcoming first-party game Resistance 3 will feature a one-time use code for online play meant to discourage used sales and rentals. Other companies, including Electronic Arts and THQ, have used similar codes within the past year to prevent people from playing online if they buy used unless they pay an extra $10 for access. It was not clear whether Sony would even allow the sale of online access codes.
“Starting with Resistance 3 this September, we will be instituting a network pass program for PS3 games with online capabilities,” Sony wrote in a statement to GameSpot [emphasis added]. The company makes no mention of used game sales, but instead claims that it “allows us to accelerate our commitment to enhancing premium online services across our first party game portfolio.” The wording indicates that future first-party titles will also be affected by this change in policy. We will keep readers updated as more information becomes available.
