Saints Row Developer: Used Game Ban Would be Fantastic

Ever since the rumour popped up that the next generation Xbox console would ban used games from functioning on their system, it has raised quite a controversy among gamers. Most are vehemently against this ban for obvious reasons but now at least one game designer has spoken out in support of the proposal. In a blog post Durall Saints Row: The Third designer Jameson Durall has stated:

"Personally I think this would be a fantastic change for our business. Even though the consumers would be up in arms about it at first, they will grow to understand why and that it won't kill them. The system is already there for Microsoft. All they'd have to do is use the DLC and codes model they have to tie a game to your Xbox live account, Each retail disc would likely need that unique key somewhere in the code so the account would be able to link it properly. Ideally it would tie a full version to the console it is registered on so family members can play even if the main account isn't signed in."

Durall concluded by saying:

"we have to do something about these issues or our industry is going to fall apart."

I can honestly see where Durall and other developers are coming from when they talk about how used games are hurting the industry. Games cost more money to make now then they ever have; so when a game is three days old and used copies are being sold for only five dollars less and developers don't see a dime of that money there is a problem. While at the same time I don't think industry insiders understand that many people can only afford the newest games by trading in their old ones towards the new purchase price. So we need to find a happy medium where both parties can be happy; I don't think this will happen until we go all digital. Even then once we go all digital there still needs to be a lower price point for games because we are not getting a box and disc, but I don't know if publishers are willing to drop the price of games just for going digital. What do you think, will going all digital solve the used games problem?