EA backs down on draconian copy protection for Spore

[Asmodean]

First of all, if you didn't know about it, read this:

http://www.bit-tech.net/news/2008/05/07/mass-effect-and-spore-drm-detailed/1

"After the first activation, SecuROM requires that [Mass Effect PC] re-check with the server within ten days (in case the CD Key has become public/warez'd and gets banned)," said French in a BioWare forum post.

If the game cannot authenticate itself over the internet within a period of ten days then the game will stop working.

"After 10 days a re-check is required before the game can run...An internet connection is not required to install, just to activate the first time, and every 10 days after," said French.

But there is good news, apparently.

http://www.bit-tech.net/news/2008/05/10/ea-backs-down-from-draconian-copy-protection/1

Both titles will drop the 10-day re-authentication method originally penned for inclusion and will instead use an online authentication when you install and launch the game for the first time.

This is good news indeed. I had almost decided not to get Spore as a result of this, but now it seems I will buy the game after all

Asmodean

[Nikolai]

Good. I was too unsure if I wanted to buy a game with such moronic copy protection.

[Adagio]

If it had kept that protection then I'm pretty sure I wouldn't buy it

At least pirates don't have to bother with that protection

[Asmodean]

Hmm....apparently the game will still "phone home" whenever you access online content (download creatures, new patches, etc.).

http://www.gamingsteve.com/blab/index.php?topic=12211.msg527100#msg527100

Caryl Shaw, Online Producer for Spore, sent me a note about these concerns:

Hey Spore Fans -

We wanted to let you know that we've been hearing your concerns about the online authentication mentioned earlier this week. I didn't want to head into the weekend without getting back to you with some information about how Spore is planning on using this new system.

A few things we wanted you to know:

* We authenticate your game online when you install and launch it the first time.
* We'll re-authenticate when a player uses online features, downloads new content or a patch for their game.
* The new system means you don't have to play with the disc in your computer. And if you are like me, always losing discs, this will be a huge benefit.
* You'll still be able to install and play on multiple computers.
* You can play offline.

I'll have to think about what I do

Asmodean

[Ijuin]

I want to know what they plan for computers that are not connected to the Net.

[DaShi]

They will be found and destroyed.