This is how Rage does the Online Pass

id Software is integrating a slightly different approach to the Online Pass system in its upcoming shooter Rage.

Within the game users will from time to time stumble upon sewer hatches. When discovered the level contained underneath is then downloaded. However, only those who have inputted the in-game code will be able to access the content.

We have the first-time buyer stuff with all the sewers,” creative director Tim Willets told Eurogamer. If you bought the game new, that would be open for you. You still have to download it, but you don’t have to pay for it.

Those hatches are all over. Most people never find them. But as soon as you do, you’re like, oh. And then you start to look for it. That’s our first-time buyer incentive.”

Willets also went to on to explain why this method was chosen – the studio is clearly cautious about angering its community.

I can tell you, some people will buy Rage, download that, and still never set foot in those things,” he added.

They just won’t. I think that’s fair. It’s cool. It’s outside the main path. We’re not detracting from anything. But I know some consumers, when you can’t avoid it, then you get a little touchy subject.”