Sony Patent to Block Used Games
In the seemingly never ending battle between console manufacturers, publishers and used games salesmen, Sony seems to be striking the next blow. A patent has been filed by Sony for "Electronic Content Processing System", which will essentially lock a purchased game to a user's account. No word yet on what this means for using games across multiple consoles, but needless to say this could essentially kneecap the used games industry in one fell swoop.This, to put it shortly, is disheartening. Seemingly one more way that a manufacturer or publisher can increase sales by further inconveniencing gamers. It's just not right.
New Challenger Enters the Android Console Arena
We've all heard of the Ouya by now, the $100 open-platform Android console that attracted one of the largest Kickstarter campaigns to date. But now, a new opponent is facing them from across the arena. A company called PlayJam has started a Kickstarter campaign to get their Android console on the shelves. This one is advertised at only $80, and seems to be barely larger than a USB memory stick.It looks like a slick piece of tech, and competition can only be good for the market. However, I just hope the competition doesn't push too far in the "low cost over quality" direction.
Same-Sex Relationships Confirmed for SWTOR
Coming on the heels of the recent move to Free-To-Play, Bioware has announced that same sex relationships will be implemented into Star Wars: The Old Republic by this spring. This has been a feature promised since the launch of the game, and one that is in line with most of Bioware's other properties, such as Mass Effect or Dragon Age.Personally, I love the spirit of it, as I'm all for all options available in game. Part of me, however, wonders if this announcement comes as a bit of an attention grab, rather than making good on a promise.
