Sony exec opposed to blocking used games, says analyst

While many developers have been vocal about their opposition to used gaming of late, not everyone in the industry shares that view. Speaking on a new episode of GameTrailers' Bonus Round, Wedbush analyst Michael Pachter said Sony Computer Entertainment America president Jack Tretton came out against the notion of blocking used game sales when Pachter asked for his personal opinion on the subject.

According to Pachter, Tretton said, "For the record, I'm totally opposed to blocking used games. I think it's great for consumers that they can buy those… I think it would be anti-consumer of us to do that." Pachter also noted that Tretton was only speaking for himself, and Sony brass in Japan might not feel the same on the subject.

Rumors have been swirling concerning Microsoft and Sony implementing anti-used-game measures in their respective future-generation consoles. Specifics are not available, and news of next-generation consoles from the two companies is not expected this year.

The used-game market has been a contentious issue, with several noted developers making clear their stance against secondhand sales. Those who spoke out against used sales recently include Crysis developer Crytek's director of creative development, Rasmus Hojengaard (though he quickly recanted), Battlefield 3 executive producer Patrick Bach, ex-THQ executive Richard Browne, Elite creator David Braben, Volition design director Jameson Durall, and Silicon Knights founder Denis Dyack.

Not all voices are against used games. Saber Interactive CEO Matthew Karch said in February that blocking used games is unfair. Also during that month, Witcher developer CD Projekt Red's managing director, Adam Badowski, took a populist gamer stance, saying systems that block used games "can be a bad thing."