Bethesda on Xbox One: We’re Still Unsure on Used Game Policy

Microsoft finally came out yesterday to add a bit more clarity to the Xbox One situation. We’ve all been left in the dark when it comes to used games, online connectivity, and a handful of other features integral to the next-generation console, and for the longest time, it seemed like Microsoft was content with the vitriol it was receiving due to poor messaging. That changed after the Xbox maker released some new information on the console, with one of the main points being the publisher’s ability to slap an activation fee on secondhand Xbox One games – even if Microsoft won’t.

“Today, some gamers choose to sell their old disc-based games back for cash and credit. We designed Xbox One so game publishers can enable you to trade in your games at participating retailers,” yesterday’s statement reads. “Microsoft does not charge a platform fee to retailers, publishers, or consumers for enabling transfer of these games."

This left many onlookers wondering just who among their favorite gaming companies would actually charge for used games. GameSpot reached out to many different publishers to see if they could get a response, and while few answered the call, the fine folks behind The Elder Scrolls and Fallout did have something to say on the matter.

“We haven't had time to fully understand and evaluate their policy," a company representative commented.

Honestly, I doubt any of us really have. All the mixed information we’ve been hearing from Microsoft representatives has almost made it impossible to consider all of the options when it comes to buying, selling, and playing games that someone owned before. With E3 just days away, we may soon learn what developers really think of the new policies.