THQ to charge second hand users for online play

THQ has become the latest publisher to ask those that buy second hand copies of its games to pay for online play.

The first title to adopt the controversial practice will be UFC Undisputed 2010, which ships with codes for access to online features.

Those that buy the game second hand will be asked to stump up around $5 to gain access to the Fight Camp mode, which allows up to 40 players to train together online.

"This multiplayer content for UFC Undisputed 2010 will be available via a one-time code included with the game at purchase," said the company in a statement to Destructoid.

"Codes for accessing the content will be available for second-time buyers for an additional $5."

EA Sports has already revealed plans to charge pre-owned users $10 for an Online Pass and access to multiplayer features, and French publisher Ubisoft said this week that it has a similar infrastructure already in place, and is watching EA very carefully.

THQ UK has told GamesIndustry.biz that it will release details of pricing in the UK and Europe within the next 24 hours.

http://www.gamesindustry.biz/article...or-online-play

eBay will be flooded with people selling their codes, because some games aren't worth the online features.