Dead Space 3 resource 'exploit' similar to theft, claims IP expert

Dead Space 3's use of microtransactions has got a lot of gamers upset and has prompted the games press to question the nature of micro-payments in console titles. However, a supposed glitch was unearthed in the game's 8th chapter - although EA claims it isn't a glitch at all - which supposedly gives players infinite resources. That could legally be considered stealing, says IP expert Sara Ludlam.

We missed this one last week, but Ludlam discussed the nature of microtransactions with the BBC, and said "If you go into a baker's to buy a bun and they give you the wrong change and you walk away knowing you have been given more change than you handed over in the first place, that's theft.

"So, arguably if you go into this game knowing you are supposed to be paying for these weapons and you notice a glitch allows you to accumulate them without paying, that's theft as well. But it is arguable because it's a new area."

It is indeed a new area with plenty of grey patches that the industry hasn't quite figures out yet. However EA responded to the infinite farming issue in a statement that we reported on here.

What's your take on the issue? Are microtransactions the way forward, or can you not stand them?

Cheers OXM.