Microsoft has warned that early copies ofCall of Duty: Modern Warfare 3are “not authorized” to be played online, and using them before street date could have dire consequences. This includes legally obtained copies bought from a store that sold them before release.

Xbox Live policy enforcer Stephen Tolouse embraced early players at first, saying, “If your copy is legit and obtained legitly [sic], have fun. It’s a great game.”

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However, he would later get onTwitterand warn against his earlier encouragement: “Clarification: dblchk’d with Activision.Mw3pre-release play not authorised. So pls be patient. Playing early may impact your account!”

It’s a bit rich to hit people for playing games they bought, especially if they don’t happen to follow Tolouse on Twitter. Nevertheless, the warning has been issued and while I doubt they’ll instantly ban people just for getting online, it sounds like it could be a distinct possibility.

The opening area of the Whisper mission, in a small grove.

After all, punishing consumers for what retail does is what this generation’s all about!

Play Modern Warfare 3 early and risk Xbox LIVE ban[Videogamer]

The Divide in the Cosmodrome, where the Guardian was resurrected.

A holofoil Ribbontail, as seen in collections.

The Phoneutria Fera hand cannon, inspired by the Season of the Haunted armor set. It has a unique, galactic glow.

Three Fuses appear in a match of Apex Legends' Wild Card mode.

Mad Maggie opens a supply bin and an item with a symbol indicating infinite ammo appears.

Legends slide through a zipline in King’s Canyon in Apex Legends.

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The Yeartide Apex tex Mechanica SMG with a Holofoil glow.