BioWare backs down over copy-protection issues

BioWare has revised its plans to require Mass Effect PC users to re-authenticate the game every ten days or face the game not working.

As we reported last week, BioWare had previously decided on using anti-piracy software that had caused some heartache for The Sims and BioShock players.

Under the original plans, the game would have needed to re-authenticate itself with EA servers every ten days in order to still work.

After a hostile reaction to the news across the entire internet, BioWare community manager Jay Watamaniuk posted a QA on the company'sofficial forumsconfirming that the firm had removed the more rigorous aspects of copy-protection from the game.

"BioWare has always listened very closely to its fans and we made this decision to ensure we are delivering the best possible experience to them," he said in his post.

"To all the fans including our many friends in the armed services and internationally who expressed concerns that they would not be able re-authenticate as often as required, EA and BioWare want you to know that your feedback is important to us."

Mass Effect players will now only need to authenticate their copy of the game when they install it for the first time. Re-authentication will only be necessary should the player decide to download extra content.

Courtesy of CVG.

May 12, 2008