Joystiq

Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning online pass DLC detailed, available now

David Hinkle — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST

Project Ten Dollar continues unabated. All new copies of Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning include something called House of Valor, essentially a DLC content pack offering seven exclusive quests and the Valor Arena where players must survive a "barbaric tournament and ultimately seize control of the arena."

Players will meet new companions and rivals throughout these quests, earning unique items and other rewards along the way. Players without a code can purchase an online pass for 800 MS Points ($10) through Xbox Live Marketplace or the PlayStation Network.

For more on Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning, make sure to check out the Joystiq review.

Continue reading Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning online pass DLC detailed, available now

Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning online pass DLC detailed, available now originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Warner solving Arkham City DLC issue with a simple 5 step process

Richard Mitchell — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 15:15:00 EST

According to a tipster, it looks like Warner Bros. is taking steps to resolve the various downloadable content issues faced by purchasers of Batman: Arkham City. Or, more precisely, Warner is asking customers to take steps -- five of them, actually. Alright, six if you include having to contact customer service in the first place.

A Joystiq tipster by the name of Michel contacted customer service, and was told to provide the following:

A dated proof of purchase (receipt, invoice) showing the purchase of a NEW copy of the game (not a rented or used copy, nor a copy purchased from eBay)
Your gamertag for Xbox Live, or your profile for the PSN
Your email address
A scan or digital picture of the package and game disc(s)
A scan or digital picture of the code sheet (both sides).

Upon receipt of the information, customer service promised it would "escalate" Michel's issue "so a code can be produced." Obviously, the whole ordeal once again raises concern for the concept of "Online Pass" or "Project Ten Dollar," which is ostensibly aimed at reducing used game sales and thus increasing publisher revenue. Then again, it's supposed to reward customer loyalty, offering new purchasers something extra for supporting the developer and publisher.

Continue reading Warner solving Arkham City DLC issue with a simple 5 step process

Warner solving Arkham City DLC issue with a simple 5 step process originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 Oct 2011 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mass Effect 3's multiplayer tied to Online Pass

JC Fletcher — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 14:00:00 EST

There's one important aspect of the Mass Effect 3 multiplayer experience, called "Galaxy at War," that we hadn't heard yet. Well, there are several that we still haven't heard -- like what Galaxy at War is outside of the co-op mode -- but we've just learned of one.

It's the Online Pass content.

The Galaxy at War feature is unlocked via a code included in new copies, EA revealed today. If you don't have the code (because you don't have a new copy) and you want to engage in multiplayer, you'll have to pay extra.

In an updated version of its FAQ, BioWare also clarified that you won't be controlling Shepard and his pals in the multiplayer. "Commander Shepard's part in the war will take place in the single-player campaign, as will that of other beloved characters in the franchise such as Garrus, Ashley, and Liara," BioWare noted. "These characters do not appear in the multiplayer missions." So when you attempt to "romance" your friends' characters, it'll be their originally generated characters, just like in those fanfics you wrote.

Continue reading Mass Effect 3's multiplayer tied to Online Pass

Mass Effect 3's multiplayer tied to Online Pass originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Oct 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Battlefield 3 'probably' shipping with online pass

Alexander Sliwinski — Tue, 02 Aug 2011 14:05:00 EST

The confusion regarding EA's plans for Battlefield 3's multiplayer access is palpable. GamerZines reports that Battlefield 3 Executive Producer Patrick Bach stated in an interview last week that the game would "probably" require a code for access to multiplayer. When pushed on whether EA would lock out second-hand players through use of an online pass, he replied, "I think we are." EA told the site it would pick up the conversation "another time."

The latest major iteration of the Battlefield franchise, Battlefield: Bad Company 2, implemented a "VIP Pass," granting access to extra content, but placed no initial limitations on multiplayer access. EA's online pass (i.e. Project Ten Dollar) -- now utilized by many publishers, with Ubisoft being the latest -- cuts off multiplayer to anyone who doesn't purchase a code, which comes bundled in new copies of games. Of course, with today's announcement of EA Sports Season Ticket (i.e. Project 25 Dollar), there's a whole new level of possibility.

"The whole idea is that we're paying for servers and if you create a new account there is a big process on how that is being handled in the back end," Bach said. "We would rather have you buy a new game than a used game because buying a used game is only a cost to us; we don't get a single dime from a used game, but we still need to create server space and everything for you."

Update: EA's statement: "We have not made any announcements regarding Battlefield 3 and Online Pass."

We've reached out to EA for clarification.

Battlefield 3 'probably' shipping with online pass originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Aug 2011 14:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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EA Sports Season Ticket launches today, offers full-game demos and DLC discounts

Alexander Sliwinski — Tue, 02 Aug 2011 09:10:00 EST

Electronic Arts is launching the "EA Sports Season Ticket" today, an annual $25 (2000 MSP) program that provides a premium service alongside five of the publisher's titles. The "deal" will grant full access to digital versions of games three days before their retail launch, offer a 20-percent discount on DLC, and enable "free premium web content" and brand you as a paying customer (i.e. "membership recognition").

Now, obtaining full, early versions of games sounds fantastic, until you read the fine print. Let's allow EA to do the talking: "The digitally downloaded game will time out when the game is available at retail and consumers have the option to purchase the same full game on disc at retail." If we're reading that correctly, it means you get to download the game three days early, but you still have to go to the store to actually buy it. This probably explains why GameStop is "excited to be selected as the exclusive retail marketing partner for the roll-out of EA Sports Season Ticket." (Note: According to Videogamer, EA is still working out specifics with Sony Europe, making it an Xbox 360 exclusive in that region for the time being.)

The "Free Premium Web Content" will kick off with the "Creation Center" in FIFA 12. It claims to allow greater customization tools, including team and tournament building. It'll all be available "until the membership to the program has expired."

The participating Season Ticket games will be this month's Madden NFL 12, along with NHL, FIFA, Tiger Woods PGA TOUR golf and NCAA Football going forward. You'll be able to easily recognize those who bought into the program with their "exclusive membership" recognition badge that is displayed in-game and online.

Welcome to Project 25 Dollar.

EA Sports Season Ticket launches today, offers full-game demos and DLC discounts originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Aug 2011 09:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Alice: Madness Returns' 'Online Pass' grants you Alice 1 (it's $10 otherwise)

Alexander Sliwinski — Wed, 20 Apr 2011 11:32:00 EST

"I should very much like to tell you of Project Ten Dollar," pleaded Alice.

"Well, I never heard it before, but it sounds uncommon nonsense," replied The Mock Turtle.

EA has confirmed that the original American McGee's Alice will be bundled as a downloadable bonus with Alice: Madness Returns when it's released on June 14. The catch is that the download will be tied to an "Online Pass," EA's special name for access to its games' online components, which are unlocked with registration codes included in new copies of the games. Additionally, players will be required to have the Madness Returns disc in the tray to access Alice 1. If you purchase Madness Returns used (and without an unused Online Pass code), you'd have to pay $10 for the downloadable bonus.

This marks the first time that the original Alice will be available on consoles. It will not be available on XBLA or PSN as a separate purchase -- at least, not immediately.

Continue reading Alice: Madness Returns' 'Online Pass' grants you Alice 1 (it's $10 otherwise)

Alice: Madness Returns' 'Online Pass' grants you Alice 1 (it's $10 otherwise) originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 20 Apr 2011 11:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dragon Age 2 bonus DLC opens the Black Emporium for business

JC Fletcher — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 20:00:00 EST

It wouldn't be a proper EA game release without both pre-order exclusive DLC and a "Project Ten Dollar" bonus for new copies, and Dragon Age 2 is holding to those sacred tenets.

Pre-ordering the game from "participating retailers" -- or already having done so -- will earn you the Fadeshear long sword, which deals extra damage against demons and undead enemies, and the Lion of Orlais shield, which boosts health and experience and has two rune slots.

Just buying the game new will get you an even better bonus: the "Black Emporium" location (huh, maybe that one should have been reserved for GameStop!) where you can find an appearance-changing mirror and a whistle that summons a mabari warhound. To sum up: puppy!

Gallery: Dragon Age 2 (retail bonuses)

Dragon Age 2 bonus DLC opens the Black Emporium for business originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 Jan 2011 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Dragon Age 2 to include bonus DLC pipeline like Mass Effect 2's Cerberus Network

David Hinkle — Wed, 27 Oct 2010 12:00:00 EST

Unsurprisingly, Dragon Age 2 will feature some manifestation of "Project Ten Dollar" (an incentive to buy EA's games new) akin to Mass Effect 2's bonus content delivery system, the Cerberus Network. "We will be doing that," executive producer Mark Darrah confirmed to Joystiq during a recent press preview of the game. "We haven't announced what's in it, but it'll definitely be something kind of in that Cerberus vein where there will be additional content."

Speaking of Dragon Age 2 DLC in general (and not necessarily just the freebie content), Darrah said we could expect to see a boost in quality over the Dragon Age: Origins DLC, which prompted complaints about a limited scope and areas being recycled from the main game. He assured us that the sequel's add-ons would be more unique: "What we're doing with the DLC in Dragon Age 2 is making it larger; so it'll be bigger teams, more unique environments, more unique creatures -- so that it gets the attention it deserves to get."

BioWare intends to offer free DLC to early birds as well, with pre-orders of Dragon Age 2 being upgraded to the BioWare Signature Edition at no extra charge. Dragon Age 2 will launch on Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and PC on March 8, 2011.

Dragon Age 2 to include bonus DLC pipeline like Mass Effect 2's Cerberus Network originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 27 Oct 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Sony 'exploring' idea of Online Pass style system for its titles

Randy Nelson — Mon, 23 Aug 2010 18:50:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

In an interview with GamesIndustry.biz, SCE Europe boss Andrew House has suggested that the company is taking a serious look at implementing something similar to EA's Online Pass -- which requires those who buy its titles used to pay $10 to play them online -- with its first-party games. "On the principle of making online portions of the game available or unlocked from the disc-based release for a fee, we're broadly supportive of that," House said. "And we're exploring actively the same option for our own content."

House admitted that such a system could be perceived as contradictory to Sony's long-running pitch of PlayStation Network's free online play model. "In terms of just a charge for basic online play, that's something that we have to talk about a lot more," he said. "We struggle with [that] a little bit because we feel very vindicated and base a lot of the success of PSN today -- a 70 percent connection rate across consoles -- on the fact that we've removed that major initial barrier to entry."

Still, Sony has already dabbled with charging to enable online play for used (or, in the following instance, likely pirated) PSP titles like SOCOM Fireteam Bravo 3. In this case, the game included an online activation code which, if already used or otherwise non-existent, could be replaced for a $20 fee.

Sony 'exploring' idea of Online Pass style system for its titles originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 23 Aug 2010 18:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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New copies of WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2011 include free online pass, DLC

Mike Schramm — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 10:18:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

THQ has announced that WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2011 will not only come with multiple covers, but a devastating clothesline to used game buyers. The manual will include a code that can be redeemed for "online access and the game's first DLC package," with Chris Masters as a playable character and Halloween-style costumes for Rey Mysterio and Kelly Kelly. Those who buy the game used (presumably without the code) will need to buy the DLC for 800 MS points, or $9.99 on PSN. "Project Ten Dollar"? Isn't that the new TLC match team?

Elsewhere, in the list of features actually available on the disc itself, wrestling fans will find a WWE Universe mode, an updated Road to Wrestlemania feature, more than 70 different WWE personalities and a custom character creator, plus the usual roundup of punches, kicks and sweaty holds in more than 100 different match types. Check them all out in a trailer after the break -- no in-the-box redeem code necessary.

Continue reading New copies of WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2011 include free online pass, DLC

New copies of WWE Smackdown vs. Raw 2011 include free online pass, DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 19 Aug 2010 10:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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EA Sports Online Pass redeemed by 60% of users, says EA

Richard Mitchell — Tue, 03 Aug 2010 18:20:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

During EA's Q1 financial conference call, COO John Schappert discussed the success of the company's "Online Pass" initiative. According to Schappert, early results from NCAA Football 11 and Tiger Woods PGA Tour 11 indicated that "sixty percent to seventy percent of online connected users" have redeemed a code for Online Pass. He noted further that "the level of online play is up" over last year, as is revenue from paid downloadable content.

When asked how Online Pass has impacted used game sales, Schappert noted that it's "too early to tell" but that EA is "encouraged by" the number of people playing online, and that the "extra gift" offered by Online Pass is "driving some of that adoption."

EA announced its Online Pass program earlier this year -- bundling a code with new copies of NCA Football 11 and Tiger Woods PGA Tour 11 -- which allows access to online features like multiplayer (among other things). Those who choose to buy used copies of the games can purchase an Online Pass for an additional $10. The Online Pass program operates as part of "Project Ten Dollar," created to stop losses generated by the used game industry. Based on the numbers touted by Schappert, as well as those reported by EA for the quarter, the strategy just might be working.

EA Sports Online Pass redeemed by 60% of users, says EA originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Aug 2010 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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EA's Ramsdale: Project Ten Dollar 'not a defensive measure against pre-owned or piracy'

Alexander Sliwinski — Thu, 03 Jun 2010 11:30:00 EST

Filed under: Weird But True, Opinions, New In Pop Culture

An MCV interview with Electronic Arts UK General Manager Keith Ramsdale took a turn for the Munchausen fantastical when the executive claimed EA's "Project Ten Dollar" and Online Pass are programs "all about the customer, about improving their experience," and simply "not a defensive measure against pre-owned or piracy." And just as those words left his mouth, a unicorn leaving a rainbow trail in its wake burst into the room and moved toward Ramsdale. Cherubim flew in, picked up the executive and spirited him away on the majestic steed.

Sorry, there were no unicorns or pudgy angels, we just wanted to get into the spirit of that amazing tale explaining the purpose of "Project Ten Dollar."

On a more serious note, Ramsdale expressed that there are five core sectors EA currently focuses on: football (soccer); racing; sims; shooters; and fitness. The publisher considers those genres to be "year-round opportunities" that will utilize year-round work with retail, marketing and communication with the communities, though we wonder how much that leaves for creative endeavors that fall outside those sectors. Where would a Mirror's Edge fit in?

EA's Ramsdale: Project Ten Dollar 'not a defensive measure against pre-owned or piracy' originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 03 Jun 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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THQ introduces its own 'Online Pass' in UFC 2010

JC Fletcher — Thu, 20 May 2010 10:00:00 EST

EA isn't the only company to hit on the idea of a one-time-use code for online play of sports games. THQ is penalizing used sales of UFC Undisputed 2010 in exactly the same way -- and, since Undisputed will be in stores next week, THQ is even beating EA to it.

Pastapadre discovered that copies of Undisputed will include a code on the back page of the instruction manual, required for online play. THQ confirmed the existence of the codes in a statement to Destructoid, adding that "Codes for accessing the content will be available for second-time buyers for an additional $5." So, right now, THQ is winning the price war in terms of online play privileges. Well, not counting all those companies that let even second-hand buyers play games online without additional chrages (for now).

THQ introduces its own 'Online Pass' in UFC 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 20 May 2010 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Ubisoft remains refocused on Xbox 360, PS3 in new year

James Ransom-Wiley — Tue, 18 May 2010 18:49:00 EST

In January, Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot told investors that the company would "refocus"' its development efforts on Xbox 360 and PS3 in 2010, with particular emphasis on iterating its major franchises on the HD consoles. Today, as Ubisoft reported its earnings (actually, losses) for the fiscal year ending March 31, the company remained committed to the ongoing strategy outlined earlier this year.

"We will have more 360 [and] PS3 revenue this [fiscal] year than we had last year," Guillemot said during an investor call today. "The big franchises -- seven of the eight franchises -- will be on 360; and six will be on PS3. And we will have around six or seven on the Wii."

CFO Alain Martinez put last fiscal year's combined sales from PS3 and Xbox 360 software at "about 45 percent" of revenue for the publisher, adding, "I wouldn't be surprised if we are over 50 percent on these two platforms" at the end of the current fiscal year (April 2010 - March 2011). Martinez noted that Wii software sales accounted for "about 26 percent" of revenue in the last fiscal year and hopes sales to be close to that percentage again this fiscal year. In total, Ubisoft is looking to draw "about 77 percent" of its revenue from the three console platforms over the next four quarters.

Continue reading Ubisoft remains refocused on Xbox 360, PS3 in new year

Ubisoft remains refocused on Xbox 360, PS3 in new year originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 18 May 2010 18:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Analysts discuss impact of EA Sports Online Pass

Richard Mitchell — Wed, 12 May 2010 18:30:00 EST

Over at IndustryGamers, several analysts have chimed in on EA's latest assault on used game sales: The EA Sports Online Pass. The pass will offer players access to online features -- up to and possibly including online multiplayer -- on all future EA Sports titles starting with Tiger Woods PGA Tour 11. Should someone buy a game used, additional passes can be purchased for $10. The overall consensus among analysts: It's a good thing and a smart move on EA's part.

According to Wedbush Morgan's Michael Pachter, it only makes sense that EA should be compensated for rendering online services. He noted that EA "currently does not get paid" by those who purchase used games and that the pass "is ensuring that second-hand purchasers will pay something for the maintenance of the server network and for access to premium content."

The majority of analysts agreed with Pachter, with EEDAR's Jesse Divnich noting that games now extend far beyond their own physical media. "Seven years ago, when you purchased Grand Theft Auto for $50, the entire experience was encapsulated on a DVD," said Divnich, "in 2010 that is no longer the case." He added that it is "perfectly reasonable" for EA to expect payment for features that aren't included directly on the disc. Also, DFC Intelligence's David Cole expects more companies to pursue similar programs in the future.

Meanwhile, Lazard Capital Markets' Cole Sebastian referred to the program as "a double-edged sword for publishers." While it may lower used sales, said Sebastian, it also diminishes the resale value of games that customers would trade in to purchase new ones.

Analysts discuss impact of EA Sports Online Pass originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 12 May 2010 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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EA posts $677 million loss in FY2010 alongside downed revenues

Ben Gilbert — Tue, 11 May 2010 17:40:00 EST

EA has reported the results for its fiscal year 2010, which ran from April 1, 2009 through March 31, 2010, showing a downed revenue stream for the year and an improved loss. The company took in $3.654 billion (down from $4.212 billion in FY2009) and, measured against money spent, lost $677 million (an improvement from last year's $1.088 billion in losses). Additionally, Q4 2010, running from January 1 - March 31, 2010, saw $979 million come in, compared with $860 million in Q4 the previous fiscal year and $1.243 billion last quarter -- a profitable final quarter for the company, contrasting last year's Q4 loss of $42 million with $30 million earned.

CFO Eric Brown said of the coming fiscal year, "We are affirming our FY11 and Q1 non-GAAP guidance and expect to grow profitably in the year ahead. Our digital businesses are expected to grow approximately 30 percent." For all of you wondering what that means in human speak, he's saying that, regardless of today's announcement, he's confident in what the company has predicted for the coming year (as you might imagine, EA predicts it's going to do better than last year).

It also means that Brown and EA expect to see a lot more dollars coming in on the digital front in the coming year, a likely possibility given initiatives like Project Ten Dollar, the EA Sports Online Pass and the usual stream of DLC for new games.

EA posts $677 million loss in FY2010 alongside downed revenues originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 May 2010 17:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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'Online Pass' specific to EA Sports, 'no announcement' on Medal of Honor

Alexander Sliwinski — Tue, 11 May 2010 14:55:00 EST

Listen, we get it. You're a "pre-owned" type of game buyer. To us, and your online comrades, we're equals in the game owning world. To EA, well, you're sucking its server's bandwidth. Defending EA Sports' "Online Pass," Senior Vice President Andrew Wilson told Develop, "We want to reserve EA Sports online services for people who pay EA to access them."

We were curious to find out if the same held true for non-EA Sports titles; specifically, if this program would be implemented with Medal of Honor's online multiplayer. A company representative informed Joystiq, "Online Pass is a program specific to EA Sports. However other EA titles and franchises are planning similar offerings to reward players with bonus content and online services. No announcements today related to Medal of Honor."

Begun, the game-owner class wars have.

'Online Pass' specific to EA Sports, 'no announcement' on Medal of Honor originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 11 May 2010 14:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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EA introduces one-time-use 'Online Pass' for sports games

JC Fletcher — Mon, 10 May 2010 18:05:00 EST

EA just announced the next step of its "Project Ten Dollar" initiative, one that's likely to affect a lot of people much more deeply than the allure of some extra DLC. Starting with Tiger Woods PGA Tour 11, out June 8, EA Sports games for PS3 and Xbox 360 will include a title-specific "Online Pass" that enables access to "online services, features, and bonus content." If the code has already been redeemed (i.e. if you bought the game used) additional Online Passes will be available for (you guessed it!) ten dollars. Each game will include a seven-day free trial.

The online services under the Online Pass vary by game, but an EA rep told us they can include basic online multiplayer, as well as group/league features, roster and playbook updates, downloads of user-created content (like Photo Game Faces) and tournament support.

We'd think GameStop would be most upset about this plan, given that it's basically the destination for trade-ins of last year's sports games toward the new model, but CEO Dan DeMatteo offers a cheerful quote in the announcement. "GameStop is excited to partner with such a forward-thinking publisher as Electronic Arts," DeMatteo said. "This relationship allows us to capitalize on our investments to market and sell downloadable content online, as well as through our network of stores worldwide."

EA introduces one-time-use 'Online Pass' for sports games originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 May 2010 18:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Buy Alan Wake new, get first 'game add-on' free

Ben Gilbert — Thu, 29 Apr 2010 15:15:00 EST

Apparently EA's Project Ten Dollar has had an influence on other publishers, as Microsoft announced that new purchases of Alan Wake will come with a "token code card" allowing for the free download of the first game add-on (said to be coming "later this year"). The Bright Falls Bonus Pack was also detailed, with participating retailers divvying out Avatar gear (the 'I Am Awake' t-shirt) and a Bright Falls Xbox Live theme to those of you who pre-order (the Avatar shirt and Dashboard theme also come with the Limited Collector's Edition).

And yeah, in fairness, Alan Wake isn't the first MGS-published title to get an incentivized new purchase plan (Gears of War 2 says hello), but it's certainly been some time since we last saw Microsoft employ the business model. No price has been set or release date given for the first bit of content, but we'll assuredly find out soon enough, as Alan Wake is set to arrive at retail in just a few more weeks on May 18.

Buy Alan Wake new, get first 'game add-on' free originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 29 Apr 2010 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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GAME warning customers about missing DLC in used games

Griffin McElroy — Wed, 14 Apr 2010 12:15:00 EST

[Webshots user Jamshaheed]

In an attempt to deftly avoid the legal issues which recently befell its North American counterpart, UK electronic entertainment retailer GAME has begun adhering warning labels to used games which have likely been stripped of their bundled DLC vouchers, such as Mass Effect 2 and Battlefield: Bad Company 2. According to MCV, the stickers, which tell consumers to check with store clerks on the availability of a particular game's DLC, arrived in stores last week.

We appreciate GAME's transparency in its reaction to Project Ten Dollar, but we're not sure why these warning labels also say "but each new copy of this game also includes a handful of angry, extremely venomous scorpions, so maybe you should just go with this used one instead."

[Via GamePolitics]

GAME warning customers about missing DLC in used games originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Apr 2010 12:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Lawsuit claims GameStop 'misleads consumers' about bonus DLC with used games

JC Fletcher — Fri, 26 Mar 2010 13:00:00 EST

GameStop must have known that those download vouchers for free DLC with new copies of games -- what EA calls "Project Ten Dollar" would be trouble for its business at some point. It probably didn't suspect it would be this kind of trouble.

A customer named James Collins, after buying a used copy of Dragon Age and finding himself unable to access the game's free bonus DLC ("The Stone Prisoner," above), has filed a class-action suit against the company, for "fraudulently, unfairly, unlawfully, and deceptively [misleading] consumers at the time of their purchase to believe that the game comes with free downloadable content when, in fact, it does not," effectively duping customers into paying more for a "complete" used game than for a new copy.

In addition, GameStop's seven-day return window, the lawsuit claims, gives consumers insufficient time to discover they lack access to the DLC. A copy of the complaint can be perused at IGN.

[Thanks, Rob]

Lawsuit claims GameStop 'misleads consumers' about bonus DLC with used games originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 26 Mar 2010 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Report: EA planning premium, pre-launch DLC for retail games at $10 - $15 [Update: EA explains]

Ben Gilbert — Mon, 22 Mar 2010 15:30:00 EST

During a recent visit to EA's offices, Wedbush Securities' Michael Pachter (and other analysts) got what he calls a "candid" view of the future for the publisher. Among the many glowing things that Mr. Pachter had to say in the report from the meeting, he reveals that EA group general manager Nick Earl told him EA has plans "to release premium downloadable content (PDLC) as a product for sale prior to the release of a packaged product."

Comparing the PDLC to Battlefield 1943 -- a game for which we unfortunately have yet to see any post-release support from EA -- Earl revealed that the content will be priced at between $10 to $15 through Xbox Live Arcade and PlayStation Network, and will arrive prior to a "full-blown packaged game." That "full-blown packaged game" will of course still carry a "full retail price" when it does arrive in stores. Pachter expanded to Gamasutra, "I think that the plan is to release PDLC at $15 that has 3 - 4 hours of gameplay, so [it has] a very high perceived value, then [EA will] take the feedback from the community (press and players) to tweak the follow-on full game that will be released at a normal packaged price point."

This is just one part of the digital effort EA is gearing up for in the coming year, according to the report, which details an expected "1/3 [growth] of revenues over the next few years" in the digital market. Between this and 'Project Ten Dollar,' EA's certainly taking an aggressive approach to new monetization routes on the digital frontier. It remains to be seen how it'll all pan out, but for now things are at least staying interesting.

Update: EA's Jeff Brown explained the PDLC concept to us in more detail this afternoon, saying:

"EA is working on a number of projects for delivering premium content to consumers before, during, and after the launch of a packaged-goods version of the game. EA SPORTS, EA Games and EA Play are each experimenting with download strategies that deliver fresh game content in formats players want to experience. To date, there is no set pricing strategy for the entire EA portfolio. And many of the proposals include free-to-play content on models similar to Madden Ultimate Team, Battlefield Heroes and Battlefield 1943. None of the proposals call for charging consumers for traditionally free game demos."

Report: EA planning premium, pre-launch DLC for retail games at $10 - $15 [Update: EA explains] originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 22 Mar 2010 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mass Effect 2 gets free Arc Projector heavy weapon, courtesy of Cerberus DLC Network

James Ransom-Wiley — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 14:25:00 EST

Commander's Log:

Well, whaddya know? I get up this morning and ride down to Deck 2, and the first thing outta Kelly's mouth is that I have a new message at my Private Terminal. About time -- things have been hella boring around here since beating up the Collectors! Anyway, it's from Illusive Man -- who else -- with a tantalizing subject line: "Arc Projector."

So, get this: Mr. Smokey says Cerberus has passed off a new "advanced electrical attack device" to me. It was recently tested on some geth during a "highly successful" skirmish in the Skyllian Verge. (I won't tell Legion that part, but "they" probably already know.)

Well, I'd sure like to test it myself, but the galaxy's awfully quiet these days -- still waiting on that Hammerhead delivery. I guess I'd better just start up that New Game+ ...

-Shepard

P.S. I've been feeling really homesick for Cali lately. That's where I grew up before enlisting in N7, fool.

Continue reading Mass Effect 2 gets free Arc Projector heavy weapon, courtesy of Cerberus DLC Network

Mass Effect 2 gets free Arc Projector heavy weapon, courtesy of Cerberus DLC Network originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Mar 2010 14:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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EA Sports supports 'Project Ten Dollar,' out to 'digitize' Madden consumers

Ben Gilbert — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 16:30:00 EST

Watch out, Madden consumer, 'cause Peter Moore is coming -- and he's gonna digitize you. In a speech at the Morgan Stanley Technology Conference yesterday, the EA Sports prez said, "I think we need to move much quicker, in particular with Madden, through a digital world ... you're going to see more announcements there how we digitize our Madden consumer." He was likely referring to the currently "burning" business model that revolves around disc-based media, a topic Moore has remained outspoken about for some time now.

In his eyes, rather than focusing on moving more units which each year's release, EA Sports should instead be looking at "How do I get an extra $4 or $5 dollars?" from the already existing 6 million person-strong install base. He insisted that, in line with the company's "Project Ten Dollar" aspirations, digital content keeps gamers from trading in their titles. "It keeps the disc in the drive longer, it stalls trading the game in, it allows me to be able to take further advantage of that consumer over a longer period of time." We'd like to remind you that Moore was speaking to a group of financial analysts, so when he talked about being able to "further take advantage" of you, he meant it in the nicest way possible. Promise.

He finished up by promising that future EA Sports titles will have new business models that allow for a customer to trade in their annualized sports games while simultaneously granting EA the ability to earn money from that customer -- a "best of both worlds" take on the transition from retail to digital, if you will. We'll see what happens in the not-too-distant future, as Moore also promised "We're [EA] certainly going to do a lot of that this year."

EA Sports supports 'Project Ten Dollar,' out to 'digitize' Madden consumers originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Mar 2010 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Battlefield: Bad Company 2 getting two DLC maps on day one, more coming in March

Alexander Sliwinski — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 11:30:00 EST

Battlefield: Bad Company 2 will unlock two multiplayer maps on launch day, free to players that input a "VIP code" included with new copies of the game (think: "Project Ten Dollar"). VIPs will also gain free access to a second map pack, which developer DICE will airdrop later in March. If you purchase the game second-hand, you can access the VIP code separately via the in-game store (think: $15). We can already see a repeat of the Mass Effect 2 account confusion coming from five klicks away, so make sure your affairs are in order before you redeem the code.

BC2 Senior Producer Patrick Bach claims, "These first two map packs are just the beginning. We're planning ongoing support for the community by always keeping the experience fresh and ensuring the best possible gameplay experience." This is where Battlefield 1943 fans wipe the tears from their faces as they march toward a more modern battlefield.

Battlefield: Bad Company 2 getting two DLC maps on day one, more coming in March originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Feb 2010 11:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Used game retailers respond to 'Project Ten Dollar'

Griffin McElroy — Sun, 21 Feb 2010 17:00:00 EST

It's unsurprising that most game retailers who dabble in the pre-owned market feel jilted by an initiative EA CEO John Riccitiello calls "Project Ten Dollar" -- after all, it was designed to reclaim some of the revenues earned by secondhand sellers. A number of representatives from used game retailers recently spoke to GamesIndustry (login required) about the perils EA faces by bundling DLC redemption codes with new copies of the publisher's games.

Chipsworld exec Don McCabe said consumers won't prosper under this new system, as copies of the game will lose their resale value, but retailers will "just readjust [the price] bearing in mind you have to buy the voucher." Marc Day, CEO of SwapGame, says diminished resale value will do more harm than good to the publisher's bottom line, as "customers who trade in for cash or credit do so to acquire new games they could otherwise not afford."

Check out GamesIndustry's full article for more retailer opinions on EA's new DLC strategy. It's an interesting read on what might turn out to be a pretty vicious cycle.

Used game retailers respond to 'Project Ten Dollar' originally appeared on Joystiq on Sun, 21 Feb 2010 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Battlefield: Bad Company 2 includes 'VIP code' for free day-one DLC

David Hinkle — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 13:39:00 EST

John Riccitiello's "Project Ten Dollar" endeavor -- in which EA looks to combat used-game sales by offering free DLC goodies with new purchases -- has another game marching under its banner: Battlefield: Bad Company 2. Just like Mass Effect 2, the game will ship with a code that enables access to free DLC. The first batch of add-on content for DICE's shooter will be a set of new multiplayer maps, MTV Multiplayer reports.

"In the future you will get more content, for free, if you have this VIP code," noted producer Patrick Bach, describing a free content delivery mechanism similar to BioWare's Cerberus Network. Also of note: the VIP code will be attached to your EA.com account, so make sure you keep potential hazards in mind if you buy Bad Company 2 when it launches on March 2, 2010.

[Thanks, Michael]

Battlefield: Bad Company 2 includes 'VIP code' for free day-one DLC originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 17 Feb 2010 13:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Schappert clarifies EA's sweeping DLC and online strategy

Ben Gilbert — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 13:34:00 EST

During this week's quarterly earning's report, EA COO John Schappert answered an investor question with a somewhat vague but potentially far-reaching comment regarding the publisher's future strategy for implementing online functionality into its games. "In fiscal 2011 [from April 31, 2010 to March 31, 2011], every one of EA's releases will have an online component, both downloadable content and online play," Schappert said, according to a VG247 report. CFO Eric Brown then cited Mass Effect 2's Cerberus Network as the company's "most recent example" of how this plan might manifest.

The obvious question: Does the plan apply to all platforms, including Wii, DS, PSP, and mobile? Schappert clarified to Joystiq today: "My statement wasn't in reference to any specific platform as most of our titles are multiplatform and have different features per platform. Though you can expect our PC, PS3 and Xbox 360 titles to have very robust online features. Of course, depending on the title, this may extend to other platforms as well."

While this clarification is not exactly the firestarter statement one might interpret from Schappert's original comment, the plan still raises concerns -- based on recent experiences -- that EA games' online components could continue to induce headaches so long as they are tied to EA.com accounts and the issues that have arisen as EA has increased its DLC efforts. If the plan is to include online components in all EA games in the future, then the wrinkles need to be ironed out of Project Ten Dollar now.

Schappert clarifies EA's sweeping DLC and online strategy originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Feb 2010 13:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Riccitiello talks 'Project Ten Dollar' and digital distribution

Justin McElroy — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 10:45:00 EST

Crack open a fresh copy of Mass Effect 2, The Saboteur or Dragon Age: Origins and you'll see it: A code to download some piece of game content that those suckers buying used will have to pay for. It's not just coincidence that EA is shipping so many games with these bonuses/punitive measures (depending on your perspective). It's what CEO John Riccitiello calls "Project Ten Dollar," a bid to take back a portion of revenue from the estimated $2 billion in annual used game sales. That and the rest of Riccitiello's strategy to to make EA more reliant on digital content is detailed in a new BusinessWeek report.

All we know is, with a 25 percent decline in revenue for Q3, the company needs to find some way to fill the gaps sooner rather than later. Though Riccitiello seems convinced the digital strategy will patch the hole, some remain unconvinced. Former EA consultant Eric Goldberg told BusinessWeek, "While it's possible EA can make the extremely difficult transition from providing a shiny disc in boxes to [leading] in digital, history suggests it's rather unlikely."

Riccitiello talks 'Project Ten Dollar' and digital distribution originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Feb 2010 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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