The pricing isn't crazy, it's normal.
How much does a brand new copy of Fable or Halo go for right now?
Answer: At www.gamestop.com a used copy of Halo 1 is $24.99
http://www.gamestop.com/product.asp?product%5Fid=950063
Fable? Can't find it new anywhere on Gamestop.com - The PC version for Lost Chapters is $19.99
So exactly why are you comparing cheaper (or in the case of a physical store, more expensive) used copies of games vs. new digital downloads? You can always use the BS argument "b-b-but you can find a used copy for $2" but I can use that same argument about Halo 3. I can easily find a used copy of Halo 3 for under $50. That doesn't mean that everyone wants to rush out and snag it.
In my case, this does effect, and benefit me. I cannot find a new copy of Fable for under $20.00 USD, and don't want a 2 year old scratched, used copy that might not work. I'd much rather save the $5 and download it.
For more references, trying to snag a new copy of the given games off Ebay:
http://cgi.ebay.com/FABLE-The-Lost-Chapters-Xbox-Xbox360-New-Sealed_W0QQitemZ280170786879QQihZ018QQcategoryZ62053QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
Fable = $ 13.95 new + $6.95 Shipping
http://cgi.ebay.com/XBOX-NEW-Crimson-Skies-High-Road-to-Revenge-X-BOX_W0QQitemZ120181005969QQihZ002QQcategoryZ62053QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
Crimson Skies = $7.95 new + $5.95 Shipping
http://cgi.ebay.com/ORIGINAL-HALO-1-COMBAT-EVOLVED-XBOX-LIVE-GAME-SEAL-NEW_W0QQitemZ160179024344QQihZ006QQcategoryZ62053QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
Halo 1 = $19.74 new + $7.75 Shipping
So I fail to see how your really getting jipped. If you want new, the XBLM versions will be a bit cheaper, and faster since there's no shipping involved.
Back from the dead, I'm afraid.
