What Is Always-On DRM in Video Games?

Always-on DRM is a way of ensuring the game you are playing is legit, but is there more to it? Let's find out.

Digital rights management (DRM) is a way for manufacturers, developers, and creators to protect their digital works. It's especially prevalent in digital media, such as in streaming services, ebooks, and video games.

So, what exactly is always-on DRM and how does it tie into video games? Let's take a look.

What Is Always-On DRM?

Always-on DRM is a form of DRM that involves a constant connection to a server to verify that the product you're using is legitimate. To do this, you must have an active internet connection. In other words, you must be "always online".

So, in order to play a game with always-on DRM enabled, you must have an active internet connection at all times.

Developers and publishers use always-on DRM in video games to prevent piracy. With how easily you can replicate digital media versus physical media, always-on DRM takes a step further to prevent this over conventional DRM. That being said, you can find some form of either DRM and always-on DRM in most modern physical and digital games.

While DRM is controversial, always-on DRM is more so, because of the problems it presents for consumers. A standout issue with always-on DRM is simply that it affects games that otherwise wouldn't need an internet connection.

This can be a nightmare for gamers who play single-player games and don't always have a good or consistent internet connection. The last thing you want is for your single-player game to crash, or lock you out due to a blip in your internet, and undo the progress of your gaming session. Add that to the fact that, with DRM, you don't own your game despite paying for it.

Always-on DRM also doesn't effectively tackle video game piracy. Simply put, if you want to play a pirated version of a game, it's possible. Though always-on DRM might prevent some piracy, the cons it brings to the table far outweigh whatever good it's doing.

Related: What Is Microsoft PlayReady DRM and How Does it Work?

If You Can Avoid Always-On DRM, Do So

Always-on DRM brings more problems than it solves. It's can be hugely frustrating to gamers who haven't got a consistent internet connection and can feel intrusive on games that otherwise wouldn't require an internet connection.

If you can avoid games that use always-on DRM, do so. There are also some great, legitimate ways of bypassing always-on DRM and will make your time spent gaming even more enjoyable.

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