GameStop’s CFO Rob Lloyd spoke about next-gen consoles that don’t allow used game playback at the Goldman Sachs Technology and Internet Conference today and had some bold claims for Sony and Microsoft to consider as they decide whether to allow used games playback in their next consoles.
Lloyd defended his company’s knack for re-selling games by saying:
“Consumers want the ability to play pre-owned games, they want portability in their games; they want to play physical games. And to not have those things would be a substantial reason for them not to purchase a new console.”
Lloyd notes that Sony has mentioned in the past that they don’t plan to block used games in a future console but does make of the fact that Microsoft hasn’t responded to these rumors yet.
He goes onto say that he thinks 60% of consumers would not purchase a next-gen console if it didn’t allow them to play used games.
I’d have to stand with him on that one. I’m not sure how he got that 60% number, but I certainly would need some serious sweet-talking from Sony or Microsoft if either one of them decides to block used games.
If new game prices dropped to $30-$40 for AAA games on the first day of release? Then maybe I’d be able to live without used games, but as is I don’t think I want to lose the right to resell or purchased second hand software on my consoles.
GameStop: 60% of consumers will refuse to buy a console if it doesn't play used games,
