Every console generation, inherently, starts with the speculation: Will the graphics be prettier? Will the games be bigger? How will online play and digital downloading continue to evolve?
The new next generation, however, has found something different. For the first time, a possibility and a plausibility both exist in earnest that the Xbox 720 and PlayStation 4 (neither of which has an official name yet) may block the use of used games to consumers. A rumor brought Microsoft’s potential anti-used-game plans to light back in January, and a source claiming to out Sony’s PS4 as ‘Orbis’ back in March also alleged the console wouldn’t be backwards compatible.
Effectively an extinguishing of the used-game market if true, the impact of the move would be seismic – not just for consumers who bank on the savings, but also for brick-and-mortar retail outlets who thrive as the middleman. Such a system shock could usher in a GameStop boycott of the consoles and create turmoil for all parties involved.
Fortunately, it seems like among the ranks of Sony’s top brass, not everyone is in favor of a used game liquidation.
Speaking on the latest episode of GameTrailers‘ Bonus Round, Wedbush Morgan Securities analyst Michael Pachter relayed a conversation he had with Sony Computer Entertainment America President and CEO Jack Tretton regarding the blocking of used games. According to Pachter, Tretton’s completely against the practice – he thinks they’re conducive to late-cycle console sales, provide a great value for the customer, and a block would be “anti-consumer.” Tretton wasn’t sure how Sony HQ in Japan felt – but it’s a good indication coming from a man who’s tightly tied with the PlayStation image.
The 20-minute video – hosted by Geoff Keighley and featuring Pachter, GameTrailers’ Editor-in-Chief Shane Satterfield; LA Times reporter Ben Fritz; and former X-Play co-host Adam Sessler, sporting the Max Payne 3 look – gets into Tretton’s comments at the 1:30 mark but also generates some interesting discussion on Sony’s E3 outlook.
It’s almost inevitable that someday the decline of disc-and-box transactions will begin – with all media being downloaded from an online store like the PlayStation Network or Xbox Live Marketplace or Steam – but with Sony boss Kaz Hirai already hinting at the PS4′s hard-disc support and no reason to think the Xbox 720 will be any different, anti-used game measures now would be seen as an overt attempt to slice consumer savings into producer profit.
Ranters, are you encouraged by Tretton’s remarks? Do you think used games will still have their place in the future – be it the next generation or beyond?
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Follow me on Twitter @Brian_Sipple.
Source: GameTrailers
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I HIGHLY doubt that either console will restrict used games, especially after a statement like this. That’d be like making a parachute without a reserve. Who would buy that?
It would be pretty foolish to overlook a statement like that. Cutting out businesses such as GameStop would definitely hurt a lot of people economically. Not to mention, imagine the lack of purchase by consumers if there was no ability to purchase used games. Businesses such at GameStop and Gamefly thrive off of the second-hand retail business, not only because it’s a great idea, but because it’s very helpful to consumers. Players don’t want to buy a game they think might be junk. So they can go to Gamefly, rent it, and then buy it. But if there was a code you would have to put in, players wouldn’t be able to rent or borrow a game, thus the company not making money, and a player without knowing how good/bad a game could be/is.
It is very anti consumer to block used games. How the hell am I suppose to trade in my used crappy games for a new game I want to buy. I traded in 3 of my games this year just to afford to buy Ghost Recon:FS. If a company blocks used game I would think a Boycott would be in order.
With all this talk about how important money is for companies. Im starting to get the feeling they are just making games and new consoles to just make money that making games isn’t for people to enjoy them and have fun. I know money is important but like ive said before if they focus on just making money and not “How can we make this game fun and enjoyable” the games will never be great but just half of what it could be. :\ I hope all this is just rumors and not possible facts
That is good to hear! I think he’s definitely right that used game sales are a significant motivator for late-cycle console sales. Although I guess if the transition to all-digital comes sooner rather than later, then this is all moot. But I hope that’s still at least a decade away.
If I recall correctly Jack Tretton is usually known for saying stupid things; this is not one of them. Probably one of the most intelligent things this man has said in a long time.