Sony Says New Games Will Need Network Passes

Sony has announced that the company will be creating a network pass program (also called the PSN Pass), starting with Resistance 3 upon its release in September. 

Players who purchase games which require the network pass will be required to input a single-use code in order to activate their games. This code cannot be provided to anyone else, and is valid for only a single activation. 

The code will grant users "full online access for that title," and "allows [Sony] to accelerate [their] commitment to enhancing premium online services across [their] first party game portfolio." 

The online passes are a part of a campaign to drive down used game sales and increase the popularity of titles which are purchased brand new. The industry has long argued against the existence of used game sales which they say eats into the profits of the developers and publishers who create those titles.

Sony has yet  to explain whether it will be possible for owners of used titles which utilize the service, such as Resistance 3, to play the game. 

Resistance 3 is set for an exclusive September 6 release on the PlayStation 3.