While used games are being killed, swapping games among friends is next on the chopping block

[Dodece]

There arguments are ludicrous, because they ignore a simple truth about economics. Reselling lengthens a potential market. While restrictions curtail a potential market. Prohibiting a secondary market will only result in reducing the market as a whole while also limiting the primary market. Worse yet it can result in strengthening the black market which indeed is a zero sum game for providers. The majority of those who buy or sell used games are those who are of limited means. They cannot afford to pay top dollar regardless. So placing them in a position which will strongly encourage them to opt out, or to turn to illegal sources. Just isn't good for the markets long term prospects.

What always goes ignored in these debates is the fact that the used market spreads the load. When someone sells a used game that money is most often going into buying a new game, or paying for something that is necessary. Which may well mean that person will have more money to spend on gaming at a later date. The person who will buy that used game is going to be able to game within a budget. That means they may not be able to buy all of the games they will play new, but they will undoubtedly buy a few.

Removing the used market through anything close to heavy handed tactics is going to be disastrous for the game market. All it is liable to do is create a back lash. Where gamers abandon individual titles, the market itself, or feel compelled to get titles through underhanded means. Online passes are eventually going to devalue the titles they are attached to. Resellers are going to reduce their prices accordingly taking into account the added cost to the buyer.

I am not saying the industry isn't going to move this way, but it would indeed be a foolish move. Coming down so hard on the consumers is going to backfire on them. I wouldn't purchase a game that had a online pass, because I just do not buy games that devalue so quickly. Yes I buy and sell, but I also buy new. Without the used market I can be honest I couldn't afford to game.