[SerpentJoe]

As an implementation detail that's true out of necessity, but the simple English explanation of the mechanic would be "they are rewarding you for having an amiibo", not for having an NFC code. You wouldn't say "the passwords on Apple's databases are there to reward intruders who possess the correct password", right?

[jmcdiesel]

The key difference here being the lack of victim, that makes your argument void.

[saghm]

I guess I just feel like there's a lot less harm done in hacking Apple's database than there is in giving your video game character an extra outfit to wear or horse to ride.

[ballenf]

It's more than cosmetic in these games -- there are entire realms accessible only if you have the right Amiibos or combinations thereof.

So really more like the Pro vs. Home metaphor with the code for both being on the disc you bought.

This doesn't help answer the debate directly, but is relevant to understanding the question.