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Difference between revisions of "Digital rights management (DRM)"

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m (→‎Arxan Anti-Temper: Temper -> Tamper)
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{{ii}} [[The Big List of 3rd Party DRM on Steam]]
 
{{ii}} [[The Big List of 3rd Party DRM on Steam]]
 
:[[Wikipedia:Digital rights management|Digital rights management (Wikipedia)]]
 
:[[Wikipedia:Digital rights management|Digital rights management (Wikipedia)]]
 +
:[[Wikipedia:Copy protection|Copy protection (Wikipedia)]]
  
 
==Types of DRM==
 
==Types of DRM==
[[File:DRM Disk Check icon.svg|left|100px]]
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[[File:DRM Disk Check icon.svg|right|100px]]
 
===Disc check===
 
===Disc check===
:::''Games which use a disc check include [[The Sims 3]] and [[Age of Empires III]].''
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''Games which use a disc check include [[The Sims 3]] and [[Age of Empires III]].''
 +
{{DRM list|Disc check}}
 
{{ii}} Also known as CD/DVD check, it is an older form of DRM becoming less common as PC gaming moves to [[Digital Distribution|digital distribution]].
 
{{ii}} Also known as CD/DVD check, it is an older form of DRM becoming less common as PC gaming moves to [[Digital Distribution|digital distribution]].
 
{{--}} The game will not run without the appropriate CD/DVD being present in the disc drive.
 
{{--}} The game will not run without the appropriate CD/DVD being present in the disc drive.
 
{{++}} This system will operate regardless of whether or not the entire game content is installed on the hard drive.
 
{{++}} This system will operate regardless of whether or not the entire game content is installed on the hard drive.
  
[[File:DRM CD-Key icon.svg|left|100px]]
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[[File:DRM CD-Key icon.svg|right|100px]]
  
 
===CD-key===
 
===CD-key===
 
''Games which use a CD-key include [[Tom Clancy's H.A.W.X]].''
 
''Games which use a CD-key include [[Tom Clancy's H.A.W.X]].''
{{ii}} Also known as a serial or product key, the game comes with a unique code (often printed on the manual), which the user must input to complete installation.
+
{{DRM list|CD key}}
{{ii}} In this way, the installer is able to verify whether or not a game has been illegally copied.<ref>[[Wikipedia:Product key|Wikipedia: Product key]]</ref>
+
{{ii}} Also known as a serial or product key, the game comes with a unique code (often printed in the manual), which the user must input to complete the installation.
 +
{{ii}} In this way, the installer can verify whether or not a game has been illegally copied.<ref>[[Wikipedia:Product key|Wikipedia: Product key]]</ref>
 
{{++}} If activation is completed offline, then a single key has unlimited uses.
 
{{++}} If activation is completed offline, then a single key has unlimited uses.
 
{{--}} If key activation is [[#Online activation|completed online]], then a single key may be limited to a specific number of installations (see [[#Activation limit|activation limit]]).
 
{{--}} If key activation is [[#Online activation|completed online]], then a single key may be limited to a specific number of installations (see [[#Activation limit|activation limit]]).
  
[[File:DRM Online Activation icon.svg|left|100px]]
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[[File:DRM Online Activation icon.svg|right|100px]]
 
===Online activation===
 
===Online activation===
 
''Games which require online activation include [[Company of Heroes]].''<ref>[http://www.amazon.com/Games-Limited-Activations-Online-Activation/lm/R2WAWH04VXL9X6 Amazon list: Games with limited activations and/or online activation]</ref>
 
''Games which require online activation include [[Company of Heroes]].''<ref>[http://www.amazon.com/Games-Limited-Activations-Online-Activation/lm/R2WAWH04VXL9X6 Amazon list: Games with limited activations and/or online activation]</ref>
 +
{{DRM list|Online activation}}
 
{{ii}} Requires an internet connection in order to notify the rights holder each time the game is installed.<ref>[http://www.escapistmagazine.com/articles/view/columns/experienced-points/6452-Online-Activation-Is-a-Ripoff The Escapist: Experienced Points - Online Activation Is A Ripoff]</ref>
 
{{ii}} Requires an internet connection in order to notify the rights holder each time the game is installed.<ref>[http://www.escapistmagazine.com/articles/view/columns/experienced-points/6452-Online-Activation-Is-a-Ripoff The Escapist: Experienced Points - Online Activation Is A Ripoff]</ref>
 
{{--}} This is often paired with identifying information about your computer.
 
{{--}} This is often paired with identifying information about your computer.
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{{--}} It ''may'' be used in conjunction with a [[#CD-key|CD-key]] and [[#Activation limit|activation limit]] in order to restrict access to the product.
 
{{--}} It ''may'' be used in conjunction with a [[#CD-key|CD-key]] and [[#Activation limit|activation limit]] in order to restrict access to the product.
  
[[File:DRM-installationlimit.png|left|100px]]
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[[File:DRM-installationlimit.png|right|100px]]
  
 
===Activation limit===
 
===Activation limit===
 
''Games that set an activation limit include [[Mirror's Edge]], [[Crysis]] and [[Spore]].''<ref>[http://www.amazon.com/Games-Limited-Activations-Online-Activation/lm/R2WAWH04VXL9X6 Amazon list: Games with limited activations and/or online activation]</ref><ref>[http://activate.ea.com/deauthorize/ EA Games Authorization Management]</ref>
 
''Games that set an activation limit include [[Mirror's Edge]], [[Crysis]] and [[Spore]].''<ref>[http://www.amazon.com/Games-Limited-Activations-Online-Activation/lm/R2WAWH04VXL9X6 Amazon list: Games with limited activations and/or online activation]</ref><ref>[http://activate.ea.com/deauthorize/ EA Games Authorization Management]</ref>
 +
{{DRM list|Activation limit}}
 
{{ii}} Always used in conjunction with [[#Online activation|online activation]], a limit is placed on the number of times a game can be installed simultaneously, or independently.<ref>[[Wikipedia:Digital rights management#Limited install activations|Wikipedia: Limited install activations]]</ref>
 
{{ii}} Always used in conjunction with [[#Online activation|online activation]], a limit is placed on the number of times a game can be installed simultaneously, or independently.<ref>[[Wikipedia:Digital rights management#Limited install activations|Wikipedia: Limited install activations]]</ref>
 
{{ii}} The most common limits are three or five activations.
 
{{ii}} The most common limits are three or five activations.
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{{--}} Uninstalling the game may not free up an activation unless a specific 'de-authorizing tool' is provided (e.g. [http://activate.ea.com/deauthorize/ EA Games Authorization Management]).
 
{{--}} Uninstalling the game may not free up an activation unless a specific 'de-authorizing tool' is provided (e.g. [http://activate.ea.com/deauthorize/ EA Games Authorization Management]).
  
[[File:DRM Account-Based icon.svg|left|100px]]
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[[File:DRM Account-Based icon.svg|right|100px]]
 
===Account-based===
 
===Account-based===
 
''Services such as [[Steam]] and [[Origin]] are examples of account-based DRM.''
 
''Services such as [[Steam]] and [[Origin]] are examples of account-based DRM.''
 +
{{DRM list|Account}}
 
{{ii}} Once a game is purchased or redeemed, the copy is tied to a specific email address or account, and therefore requires [[#Online activation|online activation]].
 
{{ii}} Once a game is purchased or redeemed, the copy is tied to a specific email address or account, and therefore requires [[#Online activation|online activation]].
 
{{++}} These services often allow unlimited product activations.
 
{{++}} These services often allow unlimited product activations.
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{{--}} Games can never be unbound from a user's account, meaning they cannot be traded or sold on.
 
{{--}} Games can never be unbound from a user's account, meaning they cannot be traded or sold on.
  
[[File:DRM Always Online icon.svg|left|100px]]
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[[File:DRM Always Online icon.svg|right|100px]]
 
===Always online===
 
===Always online===
 
''Games that require a constant internet connection include [[Diablo III]].''<ref>[[Wikipedia:Always-on DRM|Wikipedia: Always-on DRM]]</ref>
 
''Games that require a constant internet connection include [[Diablo III]].''<ref>[[Wikipedia:Always-on DRM|Wikipedia: Always-on DRM]]</ref>
{{--}} In order to play the game, the user must remain connected to the internet for the entirety of the session.<ref>[[Wikipedia:Digital rights management#Persistent online authentication|Wikipedia: Persistent online authentication]]</ref>
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{{DRM list|Always online}}
 +
{{--}} To play the game, the user must remain connected to the internet for the entirety of the session.<ref>[[Wikipedia:Digital rights management#Persistent online authentication|Wikipedia: Persistent online authentication]]</ref>
 
{{--}} Any loss of connection will boot the player out of the game after a pre-determined length of downtime.
 
{{--}} Any loss of connection will boot the player out of the game after a pre-determined length of downtime.
 
{{--}} Game files may be consistently downloaded from the publisher's server in an attempt to reduce piracy (e.g. [[Silent Hunter 5: Battle of the Atlantic|Silent Hunter 5]]).
 
{{--}} Game files may be consistently downloaded from the publisher's server in an attempt to reduce piracy (e.g. [[Silent Hunter 5: Battle of the Atlantic|Silent Hunter 5]]).
 
{{ii}} If the entire game is stored server-side, it is known as [[#Cloud gaming|cloud gaming]].
 
{{ii}} If the entire game is stored server-side, it is known as [[#Cloud gaming|cloud gaming]].
  
[[File:DRM Cloud icon.svg|left|100px]]
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[[File:DRM Cloud icon.svg|right|100px]]
  
 
===Cloud gaming===
 
===Cloud gaming===
''[[Wikipedia:Onlive|Onlive]] is an example of cloud-based gaming.''
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''[[Wikipedia:OnLive|OnLive]] was an example of cloud-based gaming.''
{{ii}} No game files are stored on the user's computer itself.
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{{ii}} No game files are stored on the user's computer itself, instead the game is run on a rig set-up by the service provider and video and audio are streamed to the player over the internet.<ref>[http://www.onlive.co.uk/about OnLive: About]</ref>
{{ii}} Instead the game is run on a rig set-up by the service provider and video and audio are streamed to the player over the internet.<ref>[http://www.onlive.co.uk/about OnLive: About]</ref>
 
 
{{--}} Any loss of connection will boot the player out of the game after a pre-determined length of downtime.
 
{{--}} Any loss of connection will boot the player out of the game after a pre-determined length of downtime.
 
{{--}} No game files are accessible to the player.
 
{{--}} No game files are accessible to the player.
  
[[File:DRM Physical icon.svg|left|100px]]
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[[File:DRM Physical icon.svg|right|100px]]
 +
 
 
===Physical===
 
===Physical===
''Many DOS-era games like [[The Secret of Monkey Island]] utilized some form of physical DRM system''
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''Many DOS-era games like [[The Secret of Monkey Island]] utilized some form of physical DRM system''.
{{ii}} A form of DRM that requires a random phrase or code to be entered in at some point during the game. The phrase/code can only be found through physical materials (or "feelies") provided with the game.
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{{DRM list|Physical}}
 +
{{ii}} A form of DRM that requires a random phrase or code to be entered in at some point during the game. The phrase/code can only be found in physical materials (or "feelies") provided with the game.
 
{{ii}} Sometimes integrated into actual gameplay as a puzzle or very difficult section.
 
{{ii}} Sometimes integrated into actual gameplay as a puzzle or very difficult section.
 
{{++}} A "defeated" DRM system, most of the physical content can be found online for free.
 
{{++}} A "defeated" DRM system, most of the physical content can be found online for free.
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==DRM-free==
 
==DRM-free==
[[File:DRM-free icon.svg|left|100px]]
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[[File:DRM-free icon.svg|right|100px]]
''[[GOG.com]] is a popular website which only sells DRM-free games.<ref>[http://techcrunch.com/2013/08/19/gog-com-opens-a-new-indie-developer-portal-as-it-looks-to-broaden-its-drm-free-games-catalogue/ TechCrunch: GOG.com opens a new indie developer portal as it looks to broaden its DRM-free games catalogue]</ref> [[GamersGate]] also offers a substantial DRM-free catalogue.''
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''[[GOG.com]] is a popular website which only sells DRM-free games.<ref>[http://techcrunch.com/2013/08/19/gog-com-opens-a-new-indie-developer-portal-as-it-looks-to-broaden-its-drm-free-games-catalogue/ TechCrunch: GOG.com opens a new indie developer portal as it looks to broaden its DRM-free games catalogue]</ref> [[GamersGate]] also offers a substantial DRM-free catalogue. [[The Big List of DRM-Free Games on Steam|Some titles on Steam]] are also in essence DRM-free post-download.''
 
{{++}} DRM-free means a game is shipped without any formal restrictions on how it is installed, copied, or activated.
 
{{++}} DRM-free means a game is shipped without any formal restrictions on how it is installed, copied, or activated.
 
{{++}} Once a DRM-free game has been bought, it can be installed on any computer, and then re-downloaded whenever the user desires, with no [[#Activation limit|activation limits]].<ref>[https://www.gog.com/support/website_help/downloads_and_games GOG.com: Downloads and games]</ref>
 
{{++}} Once a DRM-free game has been bought, it can be installed on any computer, and then re-downloaded whenever the user desires, with no [[#Activation limit|activation limits]].<ref>[https://www.gog.com/support/website_help/downloads_and_games GOG.com: Downloads and games]</ref>
 
{{ii}} DRM-free releases have become more popular in recent years due to consumer backlash against oppressive DRM policies.
 
{{ii}} DRM-free releases have become more popular in recent years due to consumer backlash against oppressive DRM policies.
  
==Software and removal==
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==Middleware==
{{--}} A number of software platforms exist (often bundled with certain games) designed to monitor the number of product activations and restrict the user's fair use rights.<ref>[https://w2.eff.org/IP/DRM/fair_use_and_drm.html Electronic Frontier Foundation: Fair use and DRM]</ref>
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{{ii}} Some games come bundled with and make use of additional anti-piracy protection provided by middleware developers.
{{--}} These platforms are often installed without the user's knowledge.
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{{ii}} This section details the most common platforms and how they might affect users.
{{ii}} This section details the most common platforms, their purpose, and how to remove them legally.
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{{--}} Certain middleware might also be designed to restrict the user's fair use rights.<ref>[https://w2.eff.org/IP/DRM/fair_use_and_drm.html Electronic Frontier Foundation: Fair use and DRM]</ref>
 +
 
 +
===Arxan Anti-Tamper===
 +
{{DRM list|Arxan Anti-Tamper}}<br />
 +
{{ii}} Used to strengthen the account-based DRM (e.g. [[#Microsoft Store|Microsoft Store]], [[#Origin|Origin]], [[#Steam/Steamworks|Steam]], or [[#Uplay|Uplay]]) of a game, considered an alternative to [[#Denuvo Anti-Tamper|Denuvo Anti-Tamper]].
 +
{{ii}} Easier to mod binary, but still employs protection methods to parts of the executable.
  
 
===Denuvo Anti-Tamper===
 
===Denuvo Anti-Tamper===
{{DRM list|Denuvo Anti-Tamper}}
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{{DRM list|Denuvo Anti-Tamper}}<br />
{{ii}} Used in conjunction with account-based DRM for many newer titles.<ref>[http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1222764&page=5#post204557941 Denuvo, are we putting the keys to PC gaming in the hands of an unknown third party? - NeoGAF]</ref>
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Denuvo Anti-Tamper is an anti-tamper protection used to strengthen the account-based DRM (e.g. [[#Microsoft Store|Microsoft Store]], [[#Origin|Origin]], [[#Steam/Steamworks|Steam]], or [[#Uplay|Uplay]]) of a game through various methods such as unique hardware-based codepaths, obfuscation, virtualization, or more.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://steamcommunity.com/app/584400/discussions/0/1496741765133223227/|title=Steam Community - Denuvo Facts - [Updated 9/25/17]|date=2018-02-16}}</ref><ref>[https://www.neogaf.com/threads/denuvo-are-we-putting-the-keys-to-pc-gaming-in-the-hands-of-an-unknown-third-party.1222764/page-5#post-204557941 Denuvo, are we putting the keys to PC gaming in the hands of an unknown third party? - NeoGAF]</ref> It is integrated into the executable of the game, and only stores licensing data separately on the disk which might remain after an uninstall. Denuvo Anti-Tamper is the de-facto standard for securing DRM schemes on newer titles. Since Denuvo Anti-Tamper uses a uniquely generated token based on the hardware and OS of the system, certain changes to the system might cause an invalidation of this token and require a one-time online connectivity to renew. Most common causes of a token invalidation is a game update, Windows update, or hardware change.
{{ii}} Does not degrade SSDs, because it doesn't perform an arbitrarily high number of read-write operations.<ref>{{Refsnip|url=http://www.dsogaming.com/news/denuvo-ssd-rumor-is-false-no-system-is-infallible-striving-to-be-a-step-ahead-of-pirates/|title=DSOGaming - Denuvo: SSD Rumor Is False, No System Is Infallible, Striving To Be A Step Ahead Of Pirates|date=2017-09-01|snippet=Completely wrong rumor which is repeated over and over although many 3rd party tests (as well as we) state that our solution does not perform read / write operations to the HDD (hence we have no negative impact on the lifetime of SSDs or any other hardware component).}}</ref>
+
 
 +
{{ii}} Requires a periodic one-time online connection at the launch of a game if the offline token stored on the disk is missing, outdated, or invalid.  
 
{{ii}} Limited to five daily activations per game, which resets 24 hours after the first activation.
 
{{ii}} Limited to five daily activations per game, which resets 24 hours after the first activation.
{{ii}} Most games{{cn|date=September 2017}} support offline activation through a support page (e.g. [https://support.codefusion.technology/mgstpp/ Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain]).
+
{{ii}} Capable of offline token renewal through a support page (e.g. [https://support.codefusion.technology/mgstpp/ Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain]) if supported by the game. [[Store:Origin|Origin]] titles do not support this as their token generation is handled within Origin's internal activation process where offline is not an option.<ref>{{Refcheck|user=Aemony|date=2018-02-16}}</ref>
{{--}} Increases difficulty of binary modding, due to its obfuscation of certain parts of the executable.
+
{{++}} Does not degrade storage drives lifetime<ref>{{Refsnip|url=http://www.dsogaming.com/news/denuvo-ssd-rumor-is-false-no-system-is-infallible-striving-to-be-a-step-ahead-of-pirates/|title=DSOGaming - Denuvo: SSD Rumor Is False, No System Is Infallible, Striving To Be A Step Ahead Of Pirates|date=2017-09-01|snippet=Completely wrong rumor which is repeated over and over although many 3rd party tests (as well as we) state that our solution does not perform read / write operations to the HDD (hence we have no negative impact on the lifetime of SSDs or any other hardware component).}}</ref>, performance in itself<ref>[https://www.reddit.com/r/Games/comments/6wvab2/sonic_mania_pc_version_launches_with_denuvo/dmb0uvi/ JesseTheVideoGuy comments on Sonic Mania PC version launches with Denuvo, online requirement - Reddit]</ref>, nor has ''ever'' enforced a persistent online connection<ref>[http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1425148&page=10#post247389467 Sonic Mania Denuvo DRM cracked - Page 10 - NeoGAF]</ref>
 +
{{--}} Can increase the difficulty of binary modding, due to its obfuscation of certain parts of the executable. Doesn't ''necessarily'' disallow the practice<ref>[https://steamcommunity.com/app/493200/discussions/0/1291817837616041996/#c1291817837618918468 Already in the third chapter and I can't launch the game on the same computer while my Steam is offline :: Steam Community Discussions]</ref>, nor debugging.<ref>[http://steamcommunity.com/groups/SpecialK_Mods/discussions/0/1319962514590954694/?ctp=378#c1480982971162407922 Special K - "Kaldaien's Mod" :: Steam Community Discussions]</ref>
  
===VMProtect===
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===[[Games for Windows - LIVE]]===
{{ii}} Prevents code from executing on virtual machine and non-standard architecture.
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''See [[Games for Windows - LIVE|the main article]] for more information. For a list of games, see [[List of Games for Windows - LIVE games]].''
{{--}} Negatively affects protected program's performance due to usage of virtualization methods.
+
{{ii}} Offline features can be used with a [[Games for Windows - LIVE#Creating a local profile|local profile]] without entering a key or activating the game (any additional DRM such as SecuROM will still require online activation). A few games do not support local profiles (e.g. [[Bulletstorm]]).
 +
{{ii}} Online features are only available in [http://www.xbox.com/live/countries  Xbox LIVE Countries and Regions] and require a [https://live.xbox.com/Account/Signin Microsoft account] and online activation. Games with Server-Side Activation (SSA) ties the product key to the Microsoft account (no install limit) while the Legacy method has an activation limit (see the [[List of Games for Windows - LIVE games]] for game-specific details).
 +
{{--}} Partially defunct. The closure of the Marketplace prevents game and DLC downloads through the service, and the multiplayer services of some games have shut down. Refer to game-specific articles for more information and possible workarounds.
  
===Arxan Anti-Tamper===
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===[[Store:Microsoft Store|Microsoft Store]]===
{{ii}} Used in conjunction with account-based DRM for many newer titles, considered an alternative to [[#Denuvo Anti-Tamper|Denuvo Anti-Tamper]].
+
{{DRM list|Microsoft Store}}<br />
{{ii}} Easier to mod binary, but still employs protection methods to parts of executable.
+
{{ii}} An additional anti-tamper protection (e.g. [[#Denuvo Anti-Tamper|Denuvo Anti-Tamper]]) might be used to strengthen the DRM of Microsoft Store.
 +
{{--}}The ''AppX'' package(s) that make up ''Universal Windows Platform'' apps acts as a very restrictive form of DRM, preventing users from easily modifying game content or use third-party injectors.
  
===Games for Windows - LIVE===
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===[[Store:Origin|Origin]]===
''For a list of games, see [[List of Games for Windows - LIVE games]].''
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{{DRM list|Origin}}<br />
{{ii}} Offline features can be used with a [[Games for Windows - LIVE#Creating a local profile|local profile]] without entering a key or activating the game (any additional DRM such as SecuROM will still require online activation). A few games do not support local profiles (e.g. [[Bulletstorm]]).
+
{{ii}} Same as with Steam/Steamworks, Origin provides a basic DRM wrapper and solution that protects against extremely casual piracy. An additional anti-tamper protection (e.g. [[#Denuvo Anti-Tamper|Denuvo Anti-Tamper]]) might be used to strengthen the DRM of Origin.
{{ii}} Online features are only available in [http://www.xbox.com/live/countries  Xbox LIVE Countries and Regions] and require a [https://live.xbox.com/Account/Signin Microsoft account] and online activation. Games with Server-Side Activation (SSA) ties the product key to the Microsoft account (no install limit) while the Legacy method has an activation limit (see the [[List of Games for Windows - LIVE games]] for game-specific details).
 
  
 
===SafeDisc===
 
===SafeDisc===
{{DRM list|SafeDisc}}
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{{DRM list|SafeDisc}}<br />
{{ii}} Protection for games distributed via optical discs aiming to disallow disc duplication
+
{{ii}} Protection for games distributed via optical discs aiming to disallow disc duplication, used often for [[#Disc check|checking the disc]].
{{ii}} Most games use it for [[#Disc check|checking the disc]]
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{{--}} No longer functions properly in Windows 10,<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/games_windows_10/secdrvsys-not-loading-in-windows-10-this-will/65a6fe83-08df-4760-b2ad-6b1ce61d40d4|title=Not Loading in Windows 10; this will break thousands of - Microsoft Community|date=2017-01-16}}</ref> and previous versions of Windows with the KB3086255<ref name="Microsoft-MS15-097">{{Refurl|url=https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/help/3086255/ms15-097-description-of-the-security-update-for-the-graphics-component|title=Microsoft - MS15-097: Description of the security update for the graphics component in Windows: September 8, 2015|date=2018-02-16}}</ref> update installed. However [https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/help/3086255/ms15-097-description-of-the-security-update-for-the-graphics-component some workarounds] may exist.
{{--}} No longer functions properly in Windows 10,<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/games_windows_10/secdrvsys-not-loading-in-windows-10-this-will/65a6fe83-08df-4760-b2ad-6b1ce61d40d4 SECDRV.SYS|title=Not Loading in Windows 10; this will break thousands of - Microsoft Community|date=2017-01-16}}</ref> and previous versions with [https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/help/3086255/ms15-097-description-of-the-security-update-for-the-graphics-component KB3086255 update]
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<!--TODO: [have a specific page just like Steam DRM one and?] explicitly mention workarounds (in the future unpackers may be added) -->
<!--TODO: [have a page, specifically for safedisc and?] mention the workarounds -->
 
  
 
===SecuROM===
 
===SecuROM===
{{DRM list|SecuROM}}<br />
+
''For more information, see the [http://www.securom.com/support_faq.asp SecuROM FAQ] website.'' {{DRM list|SecuROM}}<br />
One of the most common and longest enduring forms of DRM, SecuROM uses a variety of methods to verify the integrity of a game, as well as preventing disc burning of protected material. It is used on both physical media and digital downloads. SecuROM installs silently on a computer, and monitors certain system behavior, preventing the game from running if it finds anything suspicious. It must be manually removed from the computer with the [https://support.securom.com/removaltool.html Removal Tool] if you decide to stop using the game and no longer want the DRM.
+
One of the most common and longest enduring forms of DRM, SecuROM uses a variety of methods to verify the integrity of a game, as well as preventing disc burning of the protected material. It was used on both physical media and digital downloads. At the launch of a game and during play SecuROM would monitor certain system behavior, preventing the game from running if it found anything suspicious. SecuROM is integrated into the executable of the game, and after the game have been uninstalled only licensing data remain on the system. Some older versions also used a background service to allow the sharing of DRM licenses between multiple user accounts in Windows. Use the [https://support.securom.com/removaltool.html SecuROM Removal Tool] to remove the licensing data that remains after all SecuROM protected titles have been uninstalled from the system.
{{ii}} STILL works flawlessly on newer OS, despite erroneous reports of the contrary<ref>[https://community.pcgamingwiki.com/topic/1340-including-executables-with-no-copy-protection/#entry6736 Including executables with no copy protection - Development - PCGamingWiki Community]</ref>
+
 
<!-- truth be told, I have never checked what this "brand" was implementing back in 2000 -->
+
{{ii}} Predecessor to [[#Denuvo Anti-Tamper|Denuvo Anti-Tamper]].
 +
{{++}} '''Still works flawlessly on newer versions of Windows''', despite erroneous reports of the contrary.<ref>[https://community.pcgamingwiki.com/topic/1340-including-executables-with-no-copy-protection/#entry6736 Including executables with no copy protection - Development - PCGamingWiki Community]</ref><ref>{{Refcheck|user=Aemony|date=2018-02-16}}</ref>
 +
<!-- older (like 2000 or something) version of this *may* have been driver based, investigate -->
  
 
===StarForce===
 
===StarForce===
Another older DRM, StarForce has changed several times over the years. StarForce provides many of the functions of other DRM software, but installs itself as a driver on your computer. This along with a number of purported hardware and software issues made StarForce very controversial, and lead to a decline in its use due to user complaints.
+
{{DRM list|StarForce}}<br />
 +
Another older DRM, StarForce has changed several times over the years. StarForce provides many of the functions of other DRM software, but installs itself as a driver on the computer. This along with some purported hardware and software issues made StarForce very controversial, and lead to a decline in its use due to user complaints. For removal options, see [http://www.star-force.com/support/drivers/ the official support page]. If the game uses online activation remember to deactivate the license before removing the driver.
  
See [http://www.star-force.com/support/drivers/ Update/Remove driver] for removal details. If the game uses online activation remember to deactivate the license prior to removing the driver.
+
{{--}} Some older StarForce versions are not supported on newer versions of Windows, or might require an update to function correctly; see [http://www.star-force.com/support/users/ the official support page] for details and possible workarounds.
  
Some older StarForce versions are not supported on newer versions of Windows; see [http://www.star-force.com/support/users/ Technical support for end-users] for details.
+
===[[Store:Steam|Steam/Steamworks]]===
 +
''For more in-depth information, see [[User:Cyanic/Steam DRM|Cyanic's Steam DRM user page]].'' {{DRM list|Steam}}<br />
 +
{{ii}} Although hardly its main concern, Steam and Steamworks provides a basic DRM wrapper and solution that protects against extremely casual piracy and has some obfuscation.<ref>{{Refsnip|url=https://partner.steamgames.com/doc/features/drm|title=Steamworks Documentation - Steam DRM|date=2018-02-16|snippet=The Steam DRM wrapper by itself is not is not a anti-piracy solution. The Steam DRM wrapper protects against extremely casual piracy (i.e. copying all game files to another computer) and has some obfuscation, but it is easily removed by a motivated attacker.}}</ref> An additional anti-tamper protection (e.g. [[#Denuvo Anti-Tamper|Denuvo Anti-Tamper]]) might be used to strengthen the DRM of Steam/Steamworks.
 +
{{++}} One of the least intrusive DRM schemes available with multiple service enhancements only available for legitimate users.
 +
{{--}} Can inadvertently act as an always online DRM if implemented incorrectly by developers, as was the case with [[Sonic Mania]] and [[Ys Seven]].<ref>{{Refurl|url=http://steamcommunity.com/groups/SpecialK_Mods/discussions/0/1319962514590954694/?ctp=281#c1474222499227274893|title=Steam Community - Special K - v 0.8.65 [Legacy Release] - (1/15/18)|date=2018-02-16}}</ref>
  
 
===TAGES===
 
===TAGES===
 
{{DRM list|TAGES}}<br />
 
{{DRM list|TAGES}}<br />
TAGES, like StarForce, installs itself as a driver on your computer. Tages uses multiple methods to prevent copying.
+
{{ii}} TAGES, like StarForce, installs itself as a driver on your computer and uses multiple methods to prevent copying. The TAGES drivers can be removed or updated by using the [http://www.tagesprotection.com/main.htm?page=5.5.htm TagesSetup tool].
  
Use the [http://www.tagesprotection.com/main.htm?page=5.5.htm Tages 5.5 Drivers] to remove or update the TAGES drivers.
+
====Solidshield====
 +
{{DRM list|Solidshield}}<br />
 +
{{ii}} Solidshield is TAGES' new DRM technology. It is presumed that this is their replacement for TAGES - though some games use it in tandem with their prior system.
 +
{{ii}} To revoke activations for EA games with Solidshield "released after May 2008" use the [http://activate.ea.com/deauthorize/ EA Game Authorization Management Tool].
 +
{{ii}} To revoke activations for other games use the executable in the installation folder (usually called <code>activation.exe</code>); see [http://www.solidshield.com/docs/activation-and-revocation-client/ Activation and revocation client] for further details.
 +
 
 +
===[[Store:Uplay|Uplay]]===
 +
{{DRM list|Uplay}}<br />
 +
{{ii}} Same as with Steam/Steamworks, Uplay provides a basic DRM wrapper and solution that protects against extremely casual piracy. An additional anti-tamper protection (e.g. [[#Denuvo Anti-Tamper|Denuvo Anti-Tamper]]) might be used to strengthen the DRM of Uplay.
 +
 
 +
===VMProtect===
 +
{{DRM list|VMProtect}} ''Please note that this list might be incomplete as some iterations of [[#Denuvo Anti-Tamper|Denuvo Anti-Tamper]] also reportedly used VMProtect.''<ref>{{Refsnip|url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Denuvo|title=Wikipedia - Denuvo|date=2018-02-16|snippet=The keygens released by STEAMPUNKS are allegedly packed by VMProtect, '''which is reportedly also used by Denuvo itself in some iterations'''.}}</ref><ref>{{Refurl|url=https://steamcommunity.com/app/379720/discussions/0/357286119113278148|title=Steam Community - Denuvo Anti-Tamper - Some Information on it's Functionality [this is not a fear monger or shill post]|date=2018-02-16}}</ref><br />
 +
{{ii}} Prevents code from executing on virtual machine and non-standard architecture.{{CN|Wtf is a non-standard architecture? ARM? MIPS? Itanium?}}
 +
{{ii}} Suspected of negatively affecting protected program's performance due to usage of virtualization methods.{{CN|*Of course* 'more code' is going to affect performance (and many people usually just follow this intuition). But it should be worth mentioning, only if this was somewhat relevant - and of course proof or GTFO}}
  
 
==DRM removal==
 
==DRM removal==
DRM is required by many games, which will not run if the DRM is removed. Removing DRM while these games are installed is not recommended; in some cases, running the game will reinstall the DRM. Circumventing DRM is illegal in some countries (unless you have the developer/publisher's consent). However, there are circumstances where it is possible, legal, and advisable to remove DRM.  
+
{{ii}} '''Circumventing DRM is illegal in some countries''' (unless you have the developer/publisher's consent), however there are circumstances where it is possible, legal, and advisable to circumvent or remove the DRM of a product.
 +
{{ii}} Some Steamwork titles can be made DRM-free by the removal of Steamworks related DLL files from the game folder. See [[The Big List of DRM-Free Games on Steam]] for more information.
  
If you uninstall all software related to the DRM, the DRM can typically be removed safely. Many DRM companies provide a removal tool, other programs can be uninstalled directly.
+
DRM is often a critical component of a game, and a removal of the DRM might affect the functionality of the game; sometimes even make the game unplayable. Removing the DRM while these games are installed is therefor not recommended; although in some cases, running the game might reinstall the DRM. If you uninstall all software related to the DRM, the DRM can typically be removed safely. Many DRM companies provide a removal tool; other programs can be uninstalled directly.
  
Occasionally a developer will remove DRM from a game with a patch after a long period of time. Patching the game in these cases is a legitimate way of running the game without DRM. For example, Civilization IV: Beyond The Sword was eventually patched to remove DRM and CD checks from the game, and the Civilization IV series was re-released as a DRM-Free game soon after.
+
Occasionally a developer will remove DRM from a game with a patch after a period of time. Patching the game in these cases is a legitimate way of running the game without DRM. For example, [[Civilization IV|Civilization IV: Beyond The Sword]] was eventually patched to remove DRM and CD checks from the game, and the Civilization IV series was re-released as a DRM-free game soon after.
  
 
==DRM and second-hand software==
 
==DRM and second-hand software==
Used software is very susceptible to anti-piracy measures. A number of problems can occur when buying used games, due to DRM or copy protection.
+
Used software is very susceptible to anti-piracy measures. Some problems can occur when buying used games, due to DRM or copy protection.
  
* Lost code wheels, manuals, physical DRM. Older games, such as Pool of Radiance, require a physical tool to progress in the game. Used copies do not always include these materials, and online replacements may be difficult to find, rendering the game useless.
+
* Lost code wheels, manuals, or similar [[#Physical|physical DRM]]. Older games, such as [[Pool of Radiance]], require a physical tool to progress in the game. Used copies do not always include these materials, and online replacements may be difficult to find, rendering the game useless.
  
* Missing, registered, or banned keys. Games that require an installation key may not always have the key with them when used. The game cannot be installed without the key. In other cases, games such as World of Warcraft (prior to the free version) could not be effectively bought used, because they had one-time key usage. Another potential problem is buying a used game, and finding the multiplayer or online features of the game disabled due to actions of the previous owner.  
+
* Missing, registered, or banned [[#CD-key|keys]]. Games that require an installation key may not always have the key with them when bought used, preventing the use of the product. In other cases, games such as [[Fable 3]] can not effectively be bought used because they combine a one-time key with an [[#Account-based|account-based DRM]] to tie the one-time key to the account owned by the user. Another potential problem is buying a used game, and finding the multiplayer or online features of the game disabled due to actions of the previous owner.  
  
* Activation. Related to the registered keys problem, some software requires online activation, and used copies may fail activation because of this if they have already been played. Activation effectively makes games unsuitable for resale or transfer.
+
* Maxed out [[#Online activation|activation limit]]. Related to the registered keys problem, some software requires online activation, and used copies may fail activation if they have already been played. Activation effectively makes games unsuitable for resale or transfer.
  
 
==Controversy==
 
==Controversy==
DRM presents an issue for long term games collectors as it can lead to games becoming completely locked out as CD-keys are lost, studios close or withdraw support, or online services discontinued. This can be resolved by studios issuing a patch that removes the DRM, though not all studios do this.
+
DRM presents an issue for long-term games collectors as it can lead to games becoming completely locked out as CD-keys are lost, studios close or withdraw support, or online services discontinued. This can be resolved by studios issuing a patch that removes the DRM, though not all studios do this.
  
 
Another historic problem with DRM software is unexpected hardware and software problems. For example, early versions of StarForce sometimes caused strange behavior in optical drives, occasionally making Windows unable to detect and access CD-ROMs.  
 
Another historic problem with DRM software is unexpected hardware and software problems. For example, early versions of StarForce sometimes caused strange behavior in optical drives, occasionally making Windows unable to detect and access CD-ROMs.  
  
Online activated DRM, present in games such as Spore means that the game becomes useless when support for the servers is withdrawn. Existing installations may continue to function, but new installations will no longer function.
+
Online activated DRM means that the game might become useless if support for the servers is withdrawn. Existing installations may continue to function, but new installations will no longer function. This can be resolved by studios issuing a patch that removes the DRM, though not all studios do this.
 
 
DRM is rarely disclosed on packaging, and is installed silently on computers, sometimes without user consent. Many people as an effect do not know they have DRM software installed on the computer. Some DRM installs in critical system areas (such as "Ring-0 DRM"), a behavior typically used by malicious software due to the control it allows over a system.  
 
  
DRM also has potential to malfunction, flagging a legitimate game as pirated. For instance, The Battle For Middle Earth had a copy protection system that looked for signs of pirating that was known to trigger on legitimate installs, causing all the characters to die randomly. The only fix was to uninstall and reinstall the game.
+
DRM is rarely disclosed on packaging and might be installed silently on computers, sometimes without user consent. Many people as an effect do not know they have DRM software installed on the computer. A few DRM installs in critical system areas (such as "Ring-0 DRM"), a behavior typically used by malicious software due to the control it allows over a system.
  
The nature of DRM also makes resale of computer software difficult, in some cases impossible, which conflicts with the First Sale Doctrine many nations follow.  
+
DRM also has potential to malfunction, flagging a legitimate game as pirated. For instance, [[The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth]] had a copy protection system that looked for signs of pirating that was known to trigger on legitimate installs, causing all the characters to die randomly. The only fix was to uninstall and reinstall the game.
  
Purposefully deactivating or disabling DRM without permission of the rights holder may be illegal in some countries.  
+
The nature of DRM also makes resale of computer software difficult, in some cases impossible, which conflicts with the First Sale Doctrine many nations follow. See [[#DRM and second-hand software|DRM and second-hand software]] for more information.
  
DRM tends to stay on a computer after the related software is removed, sometimes requiring a special tool to remove. Most people are unaware that the DRM remains on their computer. Removing DRM while a game is installed typically breaks the game.  
+
DRM might remain on a system after the related software is removed, sometimes requiring a special tool to remove. Most people are unaware that the DRM remains on their computer. Removing DRM while a game is installed typically breaks the game.  
  
Online-based DRM can be revoked by any reason. Also, online-based DRM has potential for errors and is susceptible to abuse from piracy. For instance, pirated/keygen produced install keys can be registered, meaning the legitimate keys are flagged as invalid. Some games have a history of key banning for trivial reasons. The problem of falsely revoked keys is particularly noticeable on Spore.
+
Online-based DRM can be revoked for any reason. Also, online-based DRM has the potential for errors and is susceptible to abuse from piracy. For instance, pirated/keygen produced install keys can be registered, meaning the legitimate keys are flagged as invalid. Some games have a history of key banning for trivial reasons. The problem of falsely revoked keys is particularly noticeable on Spore.{{cn}}
  
DRM may contain security vulnerabilities, as revealed in the Uplay DRM backdoor.<ref>https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/2012/07/30/psa-possible-security-risk-in-some-ubisoft-pc-games/</ref>
+
DRM may contain security vulnerabilities, such as the security hole in the browser plugin of [[#Uplay|Uplay]] that could be exploited<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/2012/07/30/psa-possible-security-risk-in-some-ubisoft-pc-games/|title=Rock Paper Shotgun - Warning: Big Security Risk In Some Ubisoft PC Games|date=2018-02-16}}</ref> by an attacker using a specially crafted websites to run commands locally on systems, or MacroVision [[#SafeDisc|SafeDisc]]'s kernel drivers that prompted Microsoft to disable/remove them from modern versions of Windows due to security concerns.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/help/3086255/ms15-097-description-of-the-security-update-for-the-graphics-component|title=Microsoft - MS15-097: Description of the security update for the graphics component in Windows: September 8, 2015|date=2018-02-16}}</ref>
  
 
{{References}}
 
{{References}}
  
 
[[Category:Guide]]
 
[[Category:Guide]]

Revision as of 07:37, 25 February 2018

Key points

With relation to PC gaming, Digital Rights Management (DRM) is technology employed by companies in an attempt to limit the manipulation and copying of game data by end-users.[1]

More information

The Big List of 3rd Party DRM on Steam
Digital rights management (Wikipedia)
Copy protection (Wikipedia)

Types of DRM

DRM Disc Check icon.svg

Disc check

Games which use a disc check include The Sims 3 and Age of Empires III. For a list of games, see games using Disc check DRM.

Also known as CD/DVD check, it is an older form of DRM becoming less common as PC gaming moves to digital distribution.
The game will not run without the appropriate CD/DVD being present in the disc drive.
This system will operate regardless of whether or not the entire game content is installed on the hard drive.
DRM CD-Key icon.svg

CD-key

Games which use a CD-key include Tom Clancy's H.A.W.X. For a list of games, see games using CD key DRM.

Also known as a serial or product key, the game comes with a unique code (often printed in the manual), which the user must input to complete the installation.
In this way, the installer can verify whether or not a game has been illegally copied.[2]
If activation is completed offline, then a single key has unlimited uses.
If key activation is completed online, then a single key may be limited to a specific number of installations (see activation limit).
DRM Online Activation icon.svg

Online activation

Games which require online activation include Company of Heroes.[3] For a list of games, see games using Online activation DRM.

Requires an internet connection in order to notify the rights holder each time the game is installed.[4]
This is often paired with identifying information about your computer.
The publisher can therefore track when the game was first installed, and how many times it has been installed since.
It may be used in conjunction with a CD-key and activation limit in order to restrict access to the product.
DRM-installationlimit.png

Activation limit

Games that set an activation limit include Mirror's Edge, Crysis and Spore.[5][6] For a list of games, see games using Activation limit DRM.

Always used in conjunction with online activation, a limit is placed on the number of times a game can be installed simultaneously, or independently.[7]
The most common limits are three or five activations.
After this limit is reached, the user has to contact customer support in order to extend their limit and install their game again.
Uninstalling the game may not free up an activation unless a specific 'de-authorizing tool' is provided (e.g. EA Games Authorization Management).
DRM Account-Based icon.svg

Account-based

Services such as Steam and Origin are examples of account-based DRM. For a list of games, see games using Account DRM.

Once a game is purchased or redeemed, the copy is tied to a specific email address or account, and therefore requires online activation.
These services often allow unlimited product activations.
An account can only be used on one computer at a time, meaning a single copy cannot be active on more than one PC simultaneously.
Games can never be unbound from a user's account, meaning they cannot be traded or sold on.
DRM Always Online icon.svg

Always online

Games that require a constant internet connection include Diablo III.[8] For a list of games, see games using Always online DRM.

To play the game, the user must remain connected to the internet for the entirety of the session.[9]
Any loss of connection will boot the player out of the game after a pre-determined length of downtime.
Game files may be consistently downloaded from the publisher's server in an attempt to reduce piracy (e.g. Silent Hunter 5).
If the entire game is stored server-side, it is known as cloud gaming.
DRM Cloud icon.svg

Cloud gaming

OnLive was an example of cloud-based gaming.

No game files are stored on the user's computer itself, instead the game is run on a rig set-up by the service provider and video and audio are streamed to the player over the internet.[10]
Any loss of connection will boot the player out of the game after a pre-determined length of downtime.
No game files are accessible to the player.
DRM Physical icon.svg

Physical

Many DOS-era games like The Secret of Monkey Island utilized some form of physical DRM system. For a list of games, see games using Physical DRM.

A form of DRM that requires a random phrase or code to be entered in at some point during the game. The phrase/code can only be found in physical materials (or "feelies") provided with the game.
Sometimes integrated into actual gameplay as a puzzle or very difficult section.
A "defeated" DRM system, most of the physical content can be found online for free.
The phrase/code usually needs to be entered in at every game launch and/or for every new game.

DRM-free

DRM-free icon.svg

GOG.com is a popular website which only sells DRM-free games.[11] GamersGate also offers a substantial DRM-free catalogue. Some titles on Steam are also in essence DRM-free post-download.

DRM-free means a game is shipped without any formal restrictions on how it is installed, copied, or activated.
Once a DRM-free game has been bought, it can be installed on any computer, and then re-downloaded whenever the user desires, with no activation limits.[12]
DRM-free releases have become more popular in recent years due to consumer backlash against oppressive DRM policies.

Middleware

Some games come bundled with and make use of additional anti-piracy protection provided by middleware developers.
This section details the most common platforms and how they might affect users.
Certain middleware might also be designed to restrict the user's fair use rights.[13]

Arxan Anti-Tamper

For a list of games, see games using Arxan Anti-Tamper DRM.

Used to strengthen the account-based DRM (e.g. Microsoft Store, Origin, Steam, or Uplay) of a game, considered an alternative to Denuvo Anti-Tamper.
Easier to mod binary, but still employs protection methods to parts of the executable.

Denuvo Anti-Tamper

For a list of games, see games using Denuvo Anti-Tamper DRM.
Denuvo Anti-Tamper is an anti-tamper protection used to strengthen the account-based DRM (e.g. Microsoft Store, Origin, Steam, or Uplay) of a game through various methods such as unique hardware-based codepaths, obfuscation, virtualization, or more.[14][15] It is integrated into the executable of the game, and only stores licensing data separately on the disk which might remain after an uninstall. Denuvo Anti-Tamper is the de-facto standard for securing DRM schemes on newer titles. Since Denuvo Anti-Tamper uses a uniquely generated token based on the hardware and OS of the system, certain changes to the system might cause an invalidation of this token and require a one-time online connectivity to renew. Most common causes of a token invalidation is a game update, Windows update, or hardware change.

Requires a periodic one-time online connection at the launch of a game if the offline token stored on the disk is missing, outdated, or invalid.
Limited to five daily activations per game, which resets 24 hours after the first activation.
Capable of offline token renewal through a support page (e.g. Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain) if supported by the game. Origin titles do not support this as their token generation is handled within Origin's internal activation process where offline is not an option.[16]
Does not degrade storage drives lifetime[17], performance in itself[18], nor has ever enforced a persistent online connection[19]
Can increase the difficulty of binary modding, due to its obfuscation of certain parts of the executable. Doesn't necessarily disallow the practice[20], nor debugging.[21]

Games for Windows - LIVE

See the main article for more information. For a list of games, see List of Games for Windows - LIVE games.

Offline features can be used with a local profile without entering a key or activating the game (any additional DRM such as SecuROM will still require online activation). A few games do not support local profiles (e.g. Bulletstorm).
Online features are only available in Xbox LIVE Countries and Regions and require a Microsoft account and online activation. Games with Server-Side Activation (SSA) ties the product key to the Microsoft account (no install limit) while the Legacy method has an activation limit (see the List of Games for Windows - LIVE games for game-specific details).
Partially defunct. The closure of the Marketplace prevents game and DLC downloads through the service, and the multiplayer services of some games have shut down. Refer to game-specific articles for more information and possible workarounds.

Microsoft Store

For a list of games, see games using Microsoft Store DRM.

An additional anti-tamper protection (e.g. Denuvo Anti-Tamper) might be used to strengthen the DRM of Microsoft Store.
The AppX package(s) that make up Universal Windows Platform apps acts as a very restrictive form of DRM, preventing users from easily modifying game content or use third-party injectors.

Origin

For a list of games, see games using Origin DRM.

Same as with Steam/Steamworks, Origin provides a basic DRM wrapper and solution that protects against extremely casual piracy. An additional anti-tamper protection (e.g. Denuvo Anti-Tamper) might be used to strengthen the DRM of Origin.

SafeDisc

For a list of games, see games using SafeDisc DRM.

Protection for games distributed via optical discs aiming to disallow disc duplication, used often for checking the disc.
No longer functions properly in Windows 10,[22] and previous versions of Windows with the KB3086255[23] update installed. However some workarounds may exist.

SecuROM

For more information, see the SecuROM FAQ website. For a list of games, see games using SecuROM DRM.
One of the most common and longest enduring forms of DRM, SecuROM uses a variety of methods to verify the integrity of a game, as well as preventing disc burning of the protected material. It was used on both physical media and digital downloads. At the launch of a game and during play SecuROM would monitor certain system behavior, preventing the game from running if it found anything suspicious. SecuROM is integrated into the executable of the game, and after the game have been uninstalled only licensing data remain on the system. Some older versions also used a background service to allow the sharing of DRM licenses between multiple user accounts in Windows. Use the SecuROM Removal Tool to remove the licensing data that remains after all SecuROM protected titles have been uninstalled from the system.

Predecessor to Denuvo Anti-Tamper.
Still works flawlessly on newer versions of Windows, despite erroneous reports of the contrary.[24][25]

StarForce

For a list of games, see games using StarForce DRM.
Another older DRM, StarForce has changed several times over the years. StarForce provides many of the functions of other DRM software, but installs itself as a driver on the computer. This along with some purported hardware and software issues made StarForce very controversial, and lead to a decline in its use due to user complaints. For removal options, see the official support page. If the game uses online activation remember to deactivate the license before removing the driver.

Some older StarForce versions are not supported on newer versions of Windows, or might require an update to function correctly; see the official support page for details and possible workarounds.

Steam/Steamworks

For more in-depth information, see Cyanic's Steam DRM user page. For a list of games, see games using Steam DRM.

Although hardly its main concern, Steam and Steamworks provides a basic DRM wrapper and solution that protects against extremely casual piracy and has some obfuscation.[26] An additional anti-tamper protection (e.g. Denuvo Anti-Tamper) might be used to strengthen the DRM of Steam/Steamworks.
One of the least intrusive DRM schemes available with multiple service enhancements only available for legitimate users.
Can inadvertently act as an always online DRM if implemented incorrectly by developers, as was the case with Sonic Mania and Ys Seven.[27]

TAGES

For a list of games, see games using TAGES DRM.

TAGES, like StarForce, installs itself as a driver on your computer and uses multiple methods to prevent copying. The TAGES drivers can be removed or updated by using the TagesSetup tool.

Solidshield

For a list of games, see games using Solidshield DRM.

Solidshield is TAGES' new DRM technology. It is presumed that this is their replacement for TAGES - though some games use it in tandem with their prior system.
To revoke activations for EA games with Solidshield "released after May 2008" use the EA Game Authorization Management Tool.
To revoke activations for other games use the executable in the installation folder (usually called activation.exe); see Activation and revocation client for further details.

Uplay

For a list of games, see games using Uplay DRM.

Same as with Steam/Steamworks, Uplay provides a basic DRM wrapper and solution that protects against extremely casual piracy. An additional anti-tamper protection (e.g. Denuvo Anti-Tamper) might be used to strengthen the DRM of Uplay.

VMProtect

For a list of games, see games using VMProtect DRM. Please note that this list might be incomplete as some iterations of Denuvo Anti-Tamper also reportedly used VMProtect.[28][29]

Prevents code from executing on virtual machine and non-standard architecture.[citation needed]
Suspected of negatively affecting protected program's performance due to usage of virtualization methods.[citation needed]

DRM removal

Circumventing DRM is illegal in some countries (unless you have the developer/publisher's consent), however there are circumstances where it is possible, legal, and advisable to circumvent or remove the DRM of a product.
Some Steamwork titles can be made DRM-free by the removal of Steamworks related DLL files from the game folder. See The Big List of DRM-Free Games on Steam for more information.

DRM is often a critical component of a game, and a removal of the DRM might affect the functionality of the game; sometimes even make the game unplayable. Removing the DRM while these games are installed is therefor not recommended; although in some cases, running the game might reinstall the DRM. If you uninstall all software related to the DRM, the DRM can typically be removed safely. Many DRM companies provide a removal tool; other programs can be uninstalled directly.

Occasionally a developer will remove DRM from a game with a patch after a period of time. Patching the game in these cases is a legitimate way of running the game without DRM. For example, Civilization IV: Beyond The Sword was eventually patched to remove DRM and CD checks from the game, and the Civilization IV series was re-released as a DRM-free game soon after.

DRM and second-hand software

Used software is very susceptible to anti-piracy measures. Some problems can occur when buying used games, due to DRM or copy protection.

  • Lost code wheels, manuals, or similar physical DRM. Older games, such as Pool of Radiance, require a physical tool to progress in the game. Used copies do not always include these materials, and online replacements may be difficult to find, rendering the game useless.
  • Missing, registered, or banned keys. Games that require an installation key may not always have the key with them when bought used, preventing the use of the product. In other cases, games such as Fable 3 can not effectively be bought used because they combine a one-time key with an account-based DRM to tie the one-time key to the account owned by the user. Another potential problem is buying a used game, and finding the multiplayer or online features of the game disabled due to actions of the previous owner.
  • Maxed out activation limit. Related to the registered keys problem, some software requires online activation, and used copies may fail activation if they have already been played. Activation effectively makes games unsuitable for resale or transfer.

Controversy

DRM presents an issue for long-term games collectors as it can lead to games becoming completely locked out as CD-keys are lost, studios close or withdraw support, or online services discontinued. This can be resolved by studios issuing a patch that removes the DRM, though not all studios do this.

Another historic problem with DRM software is unexpected hardware and software problems. For example, early versions of StarForce sometimes caused strange behavior in optical drives, occasionally making Windows unable to detect and access CD-ROMs.

Online activated DRM means that the game might become useless if support for the servers is withdrawn. Existing installations may continue to function, but new installations will no longer function. This can be resolved by studios issuing a patch that removes the DRM, though not all studios do this.

DRM is rarely disclosed on packaging and might be installed silently on computers, sometimes without user consent. Many people as an effect do not know they have DRM software installed on the computer. A few DRM installs in critical system areas (such as "Ring-0 DRM"), a behavior typically used by malicious software due to the control it allows over a system.

DRM also has potential to malfunction, flagging a legitimate game as pirated. For instance, The Lord of the Rings: The Battle for Middle-earth had a copy protection system that looked for signs of pirating that was known to trigger on legitimate installs, causing all the characters to die randomly. The only fix was to uninstall and reinstall the game.

The nature of DRM also makes resale of computer software difficult, in some cases impossible, which conflicts with the First Sale Doctrine many nations follow. See DRM and second-hand software for more information.

DRM might remain on a system after the related software is removed, sometimes requiring a special tool to remove. Most people are unaware that the DRM remains on their computer. Removing DRM while a game is installed typically breaks the game.

Online-based DRM can be revoked for any reason. Also, online-based DRM has the potential for errors and is susceptible to abuse from piracy. For instance, pirated/keygen produced install keys can be registered, meaning the legitimate keys are flagged as invalid. Some games have a history of key banning for trivial reasons. The problem of falsely revoked keys is particularly noticeable on Spore.[citation needed]

DRM may contain security vulnerabilities, such as the security hole in the browser plugin of Uplay that could be exploited[30] by an attacker using a specially crafted websites to run commands locally on systems, or MacroVision SafeDisc's kernel drivers that prompted Microsoft to disable/remove them from modern versions of Windows due to security concerns.[31]


References

  1. Giant Bomb: Digital rights management
  2. Wikipedia: Product key
  3. Amazon list: Games with limited activations and/or online activation
  4. The Escapist: Experienced Points - Online Activation Is A Ripoff
  5. Amazon list: Games with limited activations and/or online activation
  6. EA Games Authorization Management
  7. Wikipedia: Limited install activations
  8. Wikipedia: Always-on DRM
  9. Wikipedia: Persistent online authentication
  10. OnLive: About
  11. TechCrunch: GOG.com opens a new indie developer portal as it looks to broaden its DRM-free games catalogue
  12. GOG.com: Downloads and games
  13. Electronic Frontier Foundation: Fair use and DRM
  14. Steam Community - Denuvo Facts - [Updated 9/25/17] - last accessed on 2018-02-16
  15. Denuvo, are we putting the keys to PC gaming in the hands of an unknown third party? - NeoGAF
  16. Verified by User:Aemony on 2018-02-16
  17. DSOGaming - Denuvo: SSD Rumor Is False, No System Is Infallible, Striving To Be A Step Ahead Of Pirates - last accessed on 2017-09-01
    "Completely wrong rumor which is repeated over and over although many 3rd party tests (as well as we) state that our solution does not perform read / write operations to the HDD (hence we have no negative impact on the lifetime of SSDs or any other hardware component)."
  18. JesseTheVideoGuy comments on Sonic Mania PC version launches with Denuvo, online requirement - Reddit
  19. Sonic Mania Denuvo DRM cracked - Page 10 - NeoGAF
  20. Already in the third chapter and I can't launch the game on the same computer while my Steam is offline :: Steam Community Discussions
  21. Special K - "Kaldaien's Mod" :: Steam Community Discussions
  22. Not Loading in Windows 10; this will break thousands of - Microsoft Community - last accessed on 2017-01-16
  23. Microsoft - MS15-097: Description of the security update for the graphics component in Windows: September 8, 2015 - last accessed on 2018-02-16
  24. Including executables with no copy protection - Development - PCGamingWiki Community
  25. Verified by User:Aemony on 2018-02-16
  26. Steamworks Documentation - Steam DRM - last accessed on 2018-02-16
    "The Steam DRM wrapper by itself is not is not a anti-piracy solution. The Steam DRM wrapper protects against extremely casual piracy (i.e. copying all game files to another computer) and has some obfuscation, but it is easily removed by a motivated attacker."
  27. Steam Community - Special K - v 0.8.65 [Legacy Release - (1/15/18)] - last accessed on 2018-02-16
  28. Wikipedia - Denuvo - last accessed on 2018-02-16
    "The keygens released by STEAMPUNKS are allegedly packed by VMProtect, which is reportedly also used by Denuvo itself in some iterations."
  29. Steam Community - Denuvo Anti-Tamper - Some Information on it's Functionality [this is not a fear monger or shill post] - last accessed on 2018-02-16
  30. Rock Paper Shotgun - Warning: Big Security Risk In Some Ubisoft PC Games - last accessed on 2018-02-16
  31. Microsoft - MS15-097: Description of the security update for the graphics component in Windows: September 8, 2015 - last accessed on 2018-02-16