Computer Games - First, when and why did discussions first start for Sony Online to begin a service like Station Exchange?

Torrie Dorrell - We began discussing the concept last year. We have been astounded at how rapidly the virtual goods and property auctions market has grown, and it was apparent that a significant portion of our customer base would benefit from a secure method of buying and selling the right to use in-game characters, items and coin.

Computer Games - Was Sony afraid that certain companies are taking revenue from games like Everuest II?

Torrie Dorrell - This was never a revenue stream for us. However, unsanctioned auction sites tend to cause our customers grief and tax our customer service department. Currently, whether transactions occur through an unsanctioned auction site or through two players shaking hands on a street corner, they can be a losing proposition for either party. If the "buyer" pays first, he or she risks not getting what was paid for. If the "seller" delivers first, he or she risks not getting payment. Meanwhile, SOE bears all of the customer service costs involved in being asked to resolve these many disputes. Our efforts have been focused on implementing a secure means by which players can conduct auctions -- a means which will, systemically, eliminate the risk for the players, lessen the customer service burden on SOE, and allow SOE to charge a fee for its service. It is a "win" for everyone involved.