Quad Core and SecurROM for GTA IV PC release

Mike Bantick
Thursday, 04 December 2008 04:38

Your IT - Entertainment

RockStar Games have chosen the much maligned SecuROM DRM code to protect themselves against the scourge of video game piracy.

Unlike the outrage that greeted games featuring SecuROM protection, such as Spore recently, RockStar Games have chosen a less pervasive way to employ the DRM protection.

According to a recent IGN UK interview, the authentication process will be once off per machine the owner installs the game to, with no limitation on the number of installs allowed.

For example when asked: What do I need to do to start playing GTA IV on my PC?

RockStar said: “A copy of the game (retail disc or digital distribution) and a computer that meets the minimum system specifications is required. An internet connection, assorted software installations, and certain service registrations are required for activation and use of all the software features. The minimum system specifications, recommended system specifications, required software installations and other requirements are listed at the end of this document. “

“You will need an active internet connection to activate the software and the retail disk is required to be in the computer drive in order to play.”

RockStar go on to say that there will also be a method to activate a game stored on an unconnected computer and that you will need the disc in the drive to launch and play GTA IV.  Of course, this is not a requirement for the digitally distributed version.

Finally, RockStar address an obviously upset interviewer, and his/her reservations of SecuROM protection.

“The SecuROM name alone instantly scares away so many vocal online consumers such as me, why exactly has Rockstar decided to use it as well? I swore I'd NEVER buy ANY game with SecuROM, ever, based on principal. What makes GTA IV any different?” IGN UK ask.

RockStar: “SecuROM offers a diverse toolset to publishers to help safeguard their IP and interests. Vocal 'board posters' seem to be most down on the SecuROM feature that limits the number of installations. But this SecuROM functionality is really nothing different than what iTunes has used for years now, which is used in over 500 millions files purchased from iTunes store. “

“We recognize that the installation limits have been a major issue, so we have not limited the number of installations for the retail disk version of GTA IV PC. The only installation limits will be the ones used by our digital distribution partners. If users are concerned about install limits, they should buy the retail disk version of the game.”