The only real solution would be if Sony distributed the beta keys directly to the gamers - and that would never happen. Betas have basically become exclusive demos in the past couple of years. They're a publicity stunt rather than a chance for a real QA check. Sure some useful data is ganined, but like I said, it's largely for hype - and no one's going to give up the PR.

whatthegeek

Yeah, that's true. The publicity that this beta has whipped up in the gaming world has been tremendous. I'm a sucker for it, anyway. I've been really looking forward to LBP, and I certainly would love to get a beta code. That's why I'm here.

Still, distribution is not entirely up to Sony - Devs and publishers do get to determine which outlets can distribute the keys. Maybe I'm wrong, and Sony does create the keys - they don't do it alone. They need the developers to set it so the keys provide access to the beta - it's more of a joint effort, and a complicated process than a simple "Sony makes the keys, they should do something about this.". Unless you know ahead of time who you're giving the keys to, there's no good way to tie them to an account. The keys are tied to the account that first uses them now. You're absolutely correct - the programming end of it isn't complicated - determining who gets the keys? That's another story. They'd have to determine who was getting access first, and then create the keys. From a business standpoint that system doesn't really work.

whatthegeek

Distribution is completely in the hands of Sony. Media Molecule actually had to get a bunch of beta keys from Sony, to be able to use their own beta. If you don't believe me, check the MM blog.

All Sony need is the beta program from MM. Sony run the distribution system, they run the game servers, they generate the keys, and the keys allow the beta program to be downloaded to the PS3. Once the beta program is on the PS3, the code has done its job, and is completely useless.

When someone applies for a beta code, they should also submit their PSN ID. That way, if they're assigned a code, the ID is associated with it, AND NOONE ELSE CAN USE THAT CODE. Thus in one stroke, you banish any chance of someone selling or trading beta codes, because they just won't work for anyone else. Also, you prevent one person from receiving more than one code, thus ensuring a more even distribution. It's simple, it's workable, it's much better than what Sony have been doing so far.

First off, the betas and their keys are created by the game's developer. Sony isn't completely out of the loop, but the keys don't start and end with them either. Also, they'd have to implement a pretty complicated system to allow the devs to generate the keys, and then force the keys to be tied to a PSN account before anyone ever uses the code. As it is right now, you get the code, and as soon as you claim it no one else can use it w/o the code getting blacklisted. At the moment, it's the best system anyone can implement.whatthegeek

Actually, the beta codes are created by Sony. The developers just create the game. Sony takes care of distribution. So the keys actually do start with them.

Tying a code to a PSN account is not terribly complicated. They already check to see what codes have been used, so they can't be used again. It's trivial to also mark the PSN ID against the code. Believe me, this is what I do for a job. I know this stuff.

At the moment, it's a half decent system, but it could be much better. I've certainly witnessed flaws in the system over the last week.

I do agree it's lame people sell beta keys, but at the same time, I don't really think there's anything anyone could do about it. There's always going to be dishonest people who try to get anything rare / hard to find for the express purpose of selling it for a profit. Unfortunatley, it's just the way of the world.

whatthegeek

There's nothing we can do about it, but Sony can do plenty. One simple method would completely eliminate this: tie the code to the PSN ID of the recipient. Also, prevent multiple codes from going to one PSN ID. So as you can see, it's really pretty simple to stop. It just takes a little more coordination from Sony and the game websites.

All the e-mails have to be checked that they attach to a gamespot account. And it's not just E-Mails they have to go through, members could answer through the Ask a Question module as well. This means double checking for doubles. I agree that it can be done faster, but it's obviously taking them longer, and we can't do anything about it. AsiaNeko

Actually, that sort of thing is quite easily handled with an appropriate SQL query. Import all known received emails and submission dates into a table, do an inner join with the members table, select with 'distinct' and 'top 2000' keywords, filter out accounts less than a day old, make sure to sort by submission date ascending. Et voila, you have an instant list of all winners. It takes all of about 5 minutes to do. But then again, that sort of thing is my job. :)

I agree with ducky, the whole thing should have been done much faster. I recon I could have done the whole job myself in about 3 hours, maybe 4. That's including sorting through emails and module answers for the top 2000 correct answers, and writing the script to send out the codes.

Then again, I'm not too worried if they take their time. If Gamespot can get the list right, and make sure that ALL the keys go to deserving game players, I'm more than happy to let them take some time. Not too much of course. Monday is OK by me.

davekay you're funny. it's only normal to get upset when professionals do something so un-professional. but it's always like this when somethings for free.ephemeralM

Hey ephermeralM. I was just posting about those guys who fly off the handle, and start throwing insults at Gamespot, becuase of a beta. It's understandable to get upset if it's important, but why get upset at a few days delay in a free beta giveaway? Why not get upset at the US financial industry, who have driven the world economy to its knees because of completely irresponsible and greedy lending practices. How about getting upset at Burma (aka Myanmar), who has voilated human rights countless times, jailing, beating, and sometimes killing defenseless bhuddist priests. All in the name of keeping hold of their power.

Then I see people here flying into a rage because they didn't get their beta code in a few days. Cry me a river guys. Do you want a hug? Maybe some pansies will help cheer you up.

I'm guessing the codes will be sent out for Monday as part of the US beta. All of the codes from other sites have been European sites mainly, and have only gotten keys for the EU beta which has started already it seems.XxDunexX

Gameinformer have already released codes, and they're definitely US. There's no reason for Gamespot to wait until Monday. I can appreciate that Gamespot want to take time to get it right. Because if they get it wrong, you guys would organise a lynch mob and ransack their HQ.

It was previously speculated that the game would release without online capability.

emitsu97

Ahhh, the old Chinese Whispers at it again. It's not speculated. The game has gone gold, and it does not have onlinemultiplayer creationmode. Those last three words make a hell of a difference. Out of the wrapper, it will have online player mode available.