More details have arrived concerning the downloadable content that will arrive with the upcoming release of Battlefield Bad Company 2. While it is being called downloadable content, it might be better called included unlockable content using the included VIP code that will be together with every new copy of the game that is sold.

When the game is released, players will be able to use the included VIP code to unlock the Laguna Alta map in Conquest mode and the Nelson Bay map for Rush mode. At some yet to be announced point in March, players will be able to use the VIP code to unlock the Arica Harbor in Conquest mode and the Laguna Presa map for Rush mode.

For those that do not have a VIP code because they purchased a used copy of the game or lost their VIP code, they will have to spend $15 to unlock these multiplayer maps should they want access to them. Knowing how Battlefield has been in the past in multiplayer, most will want to have access to all of the maps that the game can offer.

As we said, calling it downloadable content is a bit weird because the maps are already included on the disc when you buy the game. You can just use the maps without an unlock code whether you use the VIP code that is included with the purchase of a new copy of the game or you purchase the ability to unlock the maps by spending the $15.

While EA’s strategy is understandable in its desire to generate more revenue by attempting to curb the sale of used games, it just doesn’t seem fair that if buy a used copy of the game you essentially purchased four included maps on the disc that you can’t access without the unlock code. We have to wonder how players are going to feel about this. It will be interesting to see how popular these maps are once the game is released, as this will be a good indication of how people are taking to this decision by EA.