Firstly, I’d like to thank a follower of mine by the name of
@Crayzeebiker636 for suggesting I discuss this topic.
With the gaming industry constantly developing, many would
argue it’s becoming increasingly expensive to partake in gaming related
activities. The frequent releases of DLC and expansions only add to the
ever-growing financial strain placed upon gamers. That being said, additional
content is something the individual is not required to purchase to utilise
their title. So that’s fair game, right? So how do we as gamers feel about the
introduction of online passes? The inclusion of online passes has caused
intense controversy amongst the gaming community. I’ll be analysing the topic
of online passes and the issues they produce for gamers!
Online passes are required to access the online content and
capabilities a game possesses. If a game requires an online pass, when
purchased new, a single-use code will be included in the game case. When
purchasing a used game, individuals are required to purchase an online pass
through their console to access the online capabilities.
The online passes were primarily introduced to combat the
sales of used games. Although the companies responsible for the production of
these games receive a substantial profit through merely releasing these titles,
like any other business they wish to accelerate this profit further. The
popularity of used games hinders the opportunity to push these profits further.
The inclusion of the online passes is growing daily.
Companies such as Electronic Arts and THQ utilise the passes fluently
throughout their products. Other companies are beginning to follow suit with
these passes, much to the disapproval of gamers worldwide. So are the online
passes actually benefiting the industry or are they merely limiting the choices
of gamers?
I must admit that personally, I have always been hesitant with
online passes. My console of preference is the Xbox 360, which means I am
already required to pay a fee to play online. I do not purchase pre-owned games
frequently at present, but the inclusion of the online pass increases my
reluctance to do so. Technically, I would have to pay two separate fees to play
online which is unnecessary in my opinion.
Despite my opinion, I am able to recognise the reasoning
behind the inclusion of these passes. They enforce additional funds into an
industry that we all adore. Do I agree that this method is the correct one to
generate healthier revenue for the gaming industry? Not particularly. One thing
that’s certain is people have an undying passion for this industry, so much so
that they will continue to invest in the products it generates, regardless of
price.
I’m certain that most are opposed to the idea of online
passes, but try and embrace the idea in terms of what it provides for an
industry that you adore. Thank you for taking the time to read this piece. I
hope you have enjoyed the topic discussed. I’d love to hear your opinion regarding
online passes.
Once again, thanks for reading!
Hannah
