Cynthetiq

xeph, I don't disagree with you with respect to DRM, however I can see a place wherein it fits in the stream and that is in production. DRM the alpha, beta, and gold. DRM the preproduction artwork, text, models to protect your "investment." That's where it needs the protection more than it needs it on the released version.

When you release it, strip off the DRM, and regression test the game then release.

This allows controlling it getting leaked and released into the wild before it's time.

Akin to visual time code burned into a workprint copy of a movie, most players won't want to experience the hassle, but those that wish to have it "before" the announced date are the same people who are the crackers. So your only maybe alientating them.

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