How Sony Just Patented its Own Downfall

[man-bear-pig]

Sony has always held a grudge against used games, even back before the launch of the Playstation 3 but it never went through. This time though, they're actually doing it. A patent that would inevitably bring the Playstation 4 down to its knees was filed back in September 2012.

So basically the patent is to combat used games. An RFID chip will be placed on every disc made for the Playstation 4. When a disk is inserted for the first time on a console, the chip will link the disc and the console like Siamese twins, never to be separated. The worst part about this whole thing is that the chip can check the compatibility while its offline. You cannot even play offline.

So this may not seem like much to some of you. I know selling used games is not the biggest thing in our region. However, this also means that we cannot borrow or trade games with our friends! If I wanted to lend you Killzone for the weekend, I would have to give you my Playstation 4 and Killzone. Here is a question, what if my Playstation 4 broke and I had to replace it with another console, what then? Would that RFID chip be able to tell that? I doubt it. 
 

A lot of businesses depend on used games. Gamestop, one of the leading retailers in the U.S, where the selling and trading of used games are on top, saw a sudden drop in their stock overnight. This decision will not only bring down the retail business but it might even bring down Sony's business. SCEA voiced their concern about a decision like this, but ultimately, it's up to Sony Computer Entertainment in Tokyo.

Why in the world would Sony file this patent if Microsoft and Nintendo aren't? If the three of them implemented the RFID chip, then it would make a little more sense. If I can't borrow, trade or sell my own games, why would I even buy the Playstation 4? I'm sorry but God of War and Uncharted are definitely not good enough for me to go through with a decision like that. 
 

At the end of the day, Sony is a corporation. A rather large corporation, so making money is priority number one. What better way to make money than make every Playstation 4 owner purchase their own games at full price. Broken console? Trunk full of games? Sorry pal. If they honestly believe that their consumers would go and buy a whole new console and re-purchase all those games again, they're enormously mistaken.

 

Source: http://www.at7addak.com/en/Articles/226627/News/PS3/Sony-Just-Patented-its-Own-Downfall