The Mass Effect syndrome
June 12, 2008I was really looking forward to the PC port of Mass Effect. I played this game on a friend’s XBox360, and remarked at the time that this game was meant for the PC. So I was disappointed to discover that EA had implemented a strict Copy-protection scheme for the PC game. According to the Wikipedia entry -
In addition, only three activations will be allowed per CD key[80]. Reinstalling Windows or upgrading certain parts of a computer the game is installed on will use up an additional activation. Bioware employees have repeatedly stated that they do not have any information on what parts can be upgraded without triggering a new activation. [81]
As far as I’m aware, it hasn’t been made clear by either EA or Bioware under what circumstances an activation is required. Is it on re-installing the game? Or when Windows is re-installed (which is patently ridiculous)? And gamers have to regularly upgrade their videocards and soundcards for the best gaming experience. I was forced to re-install my Windows installation from a Norton Ghost image only just last week.
EA and Bioware have the right to protect their property from software piracy. But I do feel that the activation scheme unfairly punishes people who legally purchase the game.
UPDATE: Kotaku have reported that Bioware and EA have changed the schema to a once-only online activation, although the 3-times only limit still applies.
