@joshwent: Well one way around it is literally to pirate something you have a box copy of. It's covered by the same loophole that gives people the right to use an emulator like zsnes with roms of games they already own. So Box copies Aren't Outmoded at all, they an excellent way to prove you have a license,So a box copy is like a nice big receipt that's hard to lose. It gets a little weird if you purchase a digital copy then hop on pirates bay to get a drm free pirated version, since that little loophole might not fly. Theres also hacks and cracks too but buying something then hopping on pirates bay is pretty much EZ mode.
. Although when it comes to Digital copies on GoG I'm not even sure what to think since I've checked them out a few times for the sake of curiosity, if they really are DRM free then I might get something there. I'm immensely old skool with my ethics, and the thought of an all digital future for software does seem to have dire ramifications that I'm not comfortable with.
Just wanna mention that the idea of "consumer rights" as you guys are using it is not exactly a real thing. If I sell you a sandwich with a specific agreement that you won't eat it, I'm not taking away your rights, you just made a bad deal.
I agree that Steam is problematic. Specifically for me because monopolies are much more feasible with online stores than in brick and mortar, so the lack of competition is potentially troubling. But rebelling against Steam by supporting outmoded technology that limits small developers, increases game cost, and would have just as much DRM if publishers still cared, seems misguided. At least throw some cash at places like GOG, who are passionate about DRM free as well as easy access and support.
I mentioned theres ways around the DRM didn't I? Also EULAs aren't Iron clad, so the "you don't own it" stuff that gets tossed around is a lot more murky than people think. You have a License to install and use the product but HOW it's installed isn't something they have real power over. Sometimes in life you have out d-bag the d-bags duder.
Companies have been doing this for a long time. I sure was piffed when I got my snes as a kid but couldn't use my nes controller, tell you what. *rolls eyes*
Log in to comment