[Source Game Politics]

Why You Shouldn't Buy DC Universe Online Used

February 14, 2011

If you buy the PS3 version of Sony Online Entertainment's action MMO DC Universe Online, you had better stow any plans to trade it in after you are done playing. According to a report on Lazy Gamer, the PSN code that comes packed with the retail game is a one-time use code, which means the person who uses it first is the only one that can use it with that particular disc.

From an SOE representative:

"Once the PSN key has been consumed with a disk it cannot be resold/replayed with the second user adding a sub – only the original consumer can use that acct."

SOE also said that the retail disc and the PSN code are one and the same, meaning it is completely worthless after that first use. Further, there is no way (currently) that a second hand user can obtain a new code.

If you see the game for sale "used" at GameStop, avoid it like the plague because it is useless. Super. Hero. Coaster.

Source: Lazy Gamer

People should know that that is the basic case with all MMOs. It's not like other console games, but I do believe in that they should have put a note on the back or something.

We first encountered this with Phantasy Star Online for the Dreamcast about a decade ago.  Thanks for reminding us, Twesterm.

It would be great if people knew... but I don't think it's common knowledge.
Especially for some gamers who are casual and bought the game because they really liked DC Universe.

IMO Sony needs to be really clear on their policies and should have been more clear and upfront since the beginning.
Especially the default automatic subscription renewal.

Really?  Might be worth it to send that into the site to get the story taken down or updated.

They just want us to think we can't sell it used so more people have to go buy it new.

not always true, lots of MMO's these days will give you the game for free even as long as you sign up for an account.

best example would be WoW.  sure you need to buy expansion, but initial game is free and you just need to download.  you get 10 days free or whatever and then its all subscription.

At $15 a month, I could see Sony letting people go online with a used copy.  The real money is going to be made by people who play the game month after month.

that can't be right, the game REQUIRES an activation code, you can't start it with out one and it's a one time deal

The general rule is that every MMORPG comes with a key that essentially unlocks the game. Once it has been used you can't use it on any other account.

The disc can still be used to install data or what-not but if you were to sell that disc then the purchaser would ALSO have to purchase a CD-KEY so he can create an account.

This isn't anything new.