Ubisoft announced today that Uplay Passport program has been discontinued and will not be part of any of the company's future titles.
Uplay Passport is a system designed to stop second-hand game purchasers from accessing online features without purchasing a onetime access code.
"The Uplay Passport program was initiated as a means of giving customers full access and support for online multiplayer and features, along with exclusive content, bonuses and rewards," Ubisoft Communication Manager Gary Steinman posted on the official UbiBlog. "However, games today are blurring the line between offline and online, between what is "single player" and what is "multiplayer." Based on that and on the feedback we received from you, we recognized that Passport is no longer the best approach for ensuring that all our customers have the best possible experience with all facets of our games."
Uplay will also be effectively removed from Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag by setting access codes price to zero.
"We listen to our community and understand that there are concerns over some players’ ability to access [online} features, so we have decided to eliminate the cost of the Uplay Passport for Black Flag," said Steinman. This ensures that everyone will be able to use the companion app, Edward’s Fleet, online multiplayer and available bonus content at no additional cost."
Gamers currently without a Uplay Passport for Black Flag will be able to download one for free from Xbox Live or PlayStation Network. Ubisoft will refund gamers who have already purchased Uplay Passport for Black Flag.