Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for distributing digital keys. The method includes the steps of a first database storing a plurality of keys relating to a plurality of products; for each product, transferring keys from the first database to a corresponding cache in a second database; in response to a request for a key for a product, retrieving and distributing a key from the corresponding cache; and refreshing the corresponding cache by transferring further keys from the first database to the corresponding cache. A system for distributing digital keys is also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for distributing digital keys. The method includes the steps of a first database storing a plurality of keys relating to a plurality of products; for each product, transferring keys from the first database to a corresponding cache in a second database; in response to a request for a key for a product, retrieving and distributing a key from the corresponding cache; and refreshing the corresponding cache by transferring further keys from the first database to the corresponding cache. A system for distributing digital keys is also disclosed.

Abstract: A system and method for facilitating the exchange of electronic video games. A video game exchange server provides interacts with a gaming device to permit a game user to buy and load a video game onto the gaming device, to play the game on the gaming device and to return the “used” game for credits that may be used to purchase a new or used game. The game exchange server assigns a price to each new game and used game in its inventory. The game exchange server also assigns a value to each game currently stored on the gaming device. The game price and the game value may decline as a function of time or based on other factors (e.g., a new release). The game exchange server also validates that a video game stored on a gaming device is authorized.