Recent video footage of the new SSX title shows that the game has an online pass. However, this online pass is different from others, in that it doesn’t prevent players from accessing the game’s online multiplayer features.
Game Informer reports that EA is not using SSX‘s online pass to restrict players from online multiplayer access. Owners of the game will be able to access online game modes, Explore, and Global Events with no restrictions. However, credits earned from Global Events that would ordinarily be accumulated for buying gear for characters or participating in Explore and Global Events event drops will not be given to players. Instead, they’ll be stored and then awarded to players upon redemption of the Online Pass.
Below is EA’s full statement to Game Informer:
As you know, all EA Sports games for the Xbox 360 and PS3 have included a game-specific EA Sports Online Pass since June 2010. This is a one-time use registration code with each unit sold new at retail that allows access to online services and features, as well as bonus game content. Once activated, additional passes will be available for $10. Thus, all new copies of SSX will include a code for Online Pass. EA Sports has made a significant investment to offer immersive online services and features. We want to reserve these online services for people who pay EA to access them.
In SSX, players without an Online Pass are able to compete and play in both of SSX’s online game modes, Explore and Global Events with no restrictions. In Global Events, the top finishers from each event are awarded with in-game credits. These in-game credits earned during play will not be awarded to the player if they do not have an Online Pass; these credits will be stored so that at any time, if a player redeems an Online Pass code, all the credits that they had previously earned in Global Events will be immediately awarded to them.
Economy balance makes it possible to unlock all available content and allows you to participate in all event drops across both Explore and Global Events, with credits earned solely in Explore.
SSX will release for PS3 and Xbox 360 on February 28th.
Does EA’s clarification of the online pass situation for SSX change your feelings any? Has it affected whether or not you’ll purchase the game? Let us know in the comments below!
