Difference between revisions of "The big list of third-party DRM on Steam"
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|It's both Steamworks and Uplay title. Uplay requirement is not put in Store page, but you need it for launch and its achievements. | |It's both Steamworks and Uplay title. Uplay requirement is not put in Store page, but you need it for launch and its achievements. | ||
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|[[Driver: San Francisco]] | |[[Driver: San Francisco]] |
Revision as of 05:07, 14 May 2014
Project aim
- Offer a complete list of games available for purchase on Steam which have external DRM associated with them in addition to or in lieu of the various forms of Steam's native DRM.
Instructions
- Refer to the How to contribute section for information on adding games to this article.
- Included with the games are the DRM schemes involved, the issues and hindrances you might encounter due to this DRM, and what you can do to prevent DRM from interfering with your gaming experience.
Discussion
- Discuss the project on the Talk page.
Other information
- "Unofficial List of Steam Games with DRM" Steam Users' Forums thread - Original thread on this topic, all discussion has henceforth been moved to this wiki article.
- The Big List of DRM-Free Games on Steam - A comparable list of Steam games which do not feature any sort of DRM.
- DISCLAIMER: There are many games that have their own in-game store. There are also many games with DLC managed not by Steam but by the publishers themselves. These are NOT included in this list because, as previously stated, the products on these lists are available for purchase on Steam. Using non-Steam products on Steam products must be done at your own risk.
Main contacts
How to contribute
- This list covers many games already but it is still missing some games and may have outdated information.
- Please reference your additions so others can easily verify their accuracy.
- Games that never had third-party DRM are omitted from this list; this includes sequels to the games listed here.
Check the game's forums for DRM discussion
Instructions |
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Investigate DRM for your games
- If you're unsure about the specific DRM used, ask on the forum topic or project talk page so others can help.
Instructions |
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Instructions |
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Account-based DRM
DRM associated with accounts is weaker than most but still present, requiring online activation via CD key to access online services such as multiplayer and profile stats. These games require you to activate the game through their servers and use their accounts to activate the game, and many require these accounts to access the game. For single-player games, account-based DRM often does not affect the game to any real degree, as you can play them with an offline profile without activation. Because of this, many consider single-player account-based DRM to not be DRM at all because it does not require any contact beyond having the packages installed; no Internet connection is required. Games falling into this “single-player only” category will be marked as such.
Codemasters RaceNet
- Used for multiplayer and community features in newer Codemasters racing games after Codemasters switched from Games for Windows Live to Steamworks for DRM.
- Completely optional; if you don't play online you can simply ignore it. More about it here.
- Currently available for Family Sharing.
Name | Link | Notes |
---|---|---|
DiRT Showdown | Store | |
F1 2012 | Store | |
F1 2013 | Store | |
F1 Race Stars | Store | |
GRID 2 | Store |
EA Accounts
EA Accounts exist for two purposes:
To activate and run the game. This requires a constant Internet connection, even in single-player modes. The benefit to this, however, is that DLC, if it exists, is more easily managed than below.
To access online features, including DLC. In this case, the EA account is not required to access single-player (in some cases, it may be required to activate the game). For DLC, however, the game will require an account either way.
This list will be categorized as such, as well as games that use EA Classic accounts. Single-player games in the latter category will be specially marked, either as an option or exclusively single-player.
Constant Connection Required
Name | Link | Notes |
---|---|---|
Command & Conquer 4: Tiberian Twilight | Store | |
Darkspore (store page unavailable) | Hub | Structured like an MMO despite having single-player. No longer sold or supported as of August 23, 2013.[1] |
Activation, Online Services, DLC
EA Classic Account
Name | Link | Notes |
---|---|---|
Battlefield 2 | Store |
GameSpy
- WARNING: GameSpy online services will be shut down on May 31, 2014.[5]
- Most GameSpy games can be played online through alternate methods; see GameSpy for details.
- GameSpy is not DRM; however, since multiplayer (matchmaking, servers, etc.) is dependent on GameSpy for these games, they are listed here.
Games for Windows Live
- Excluded from Family Sharing (all GFWL types)
- There are two kinds of GFWL activation, SSA and Legacy. See the sections below for further details.
- Not supported worldwide; outside the Xbox LIVE Countries and Regions you can only use a local profile, meaning no multiplayer or achievements (see Steam support).
- WARNING: Games for Windows - LIVE is rumored to be shutting down on July 1, 2014. If this occurs, some games might be unplayable.
From GFWL to Steamworks
- These games are confirmed be in the process of migrating to Steamworks or have already been migrated.
Name | Link | Notes |
---|---|---|
Ace Combat: Assault Horizon - Enhanced Edition | Store | GFWL removed in April 1, 2014 update.[8] |
BioShock 2 | Link | GFWL and SecuROM removed. Added “Protector Trials” DLC and all available MP DLCs free for all, Minerva's Den DLC free for the existing owners prior update and full controller support.[9] |
Batman: Arkham Asylum GOTY | Link | GFWL and SecuROM removed.[10] Non-GOTY owners get GOTY upgrade for free.[11] Retail/GFWL keys added to Steam DB for activation. |
Batman: Arkham City GOTY | Store | GFWL and SecuROM removed.[10] Non-GOTY owners get GOTY upgrade for free.[11] Retail/GFWL keys added to Steam DB for activation. |
Dirt 3 | Store | Steamworks migration confirmed for the future (might not be ready until 2014).[12] |
Insanely Twisted Shadow Planet | Store | Games for Windows Live replaced by Steamworks in update.[13] |
Toy Soldiers | Store | Can choose between GFWL and Steamworks. GFWL version is still included but can be completely ignored. |
SSA Titled (ZDPP specially marked)
- Server-Side Activation (SSA) binds the product key permanently to your Microsoft account, similar to Steam. These games have no activation limits.
- If you bind an SSA product key to an account that is not in a supported region you will lose the key (and, consequently, access to the game).
- Some SSA games have Zero Day Piracy Protection (ZDPP), an extra DRM check to prevent playing pre-release games.
Name | Link | Notes |
---|---|---|
Age of Empires Online (store page unavailable) | Hub | Requires constant connection. Does not support local profiles. The game will become unplayable on July 1, 2014.[14] |
Batman: Arkham City (non-GOTY) (store page unavailable) | Hub | ZDPP Title. Non-GOTY owners get GOTY version for free[11] which has Steamworks DRM instead of SecuROM and GFWL.[10] |
Blacklight: Tango Down | Store | |
Bulletstorm (store page unavailable) | Hub | ZDPP Title; does not support local profiles but can be played offline. |
Colin McRae's DiRT 2 (store page unavailable) | Hub | |
Dark Souls: Prepare to Die Edition | Store | |
Dead Rising 2 | Store | ZDPP Title |
Dead Rising 2: Off the Record | Store | ZDPP Title |
DiRT 3 | Store | |
F1 2010 | Store | |
F1 2011 | Store | |
Fable III (store page unavailable) | Hub | |
Gotham City Impostors (non-Free To Play) (store page unavailable) | Hub | |
Iron Brigade | Store | |
Lost Planet 2 | Store | ZDPP Title |
Microsoft Flight (store page unavailable) | Hub | Steam version doesn't work; use Games for Windows Marketplace version with same Microsoft account in-game.[15] |
Mortal Kombat Kollection | Store | |
Ms. Splosion Man | Store | |
Operation Flashpoint: Red River | Store | |
Resident Evil: Operation Raccoon City | Store | |
Section 8 | Store | |
Section 8: Prejudice | Store | |
Street Fighter X Tekken | Store | |
Super Street Fighter IV: Arcade Edition | Store | Ultra Street Fighter IV uses Steamworks but it is not known whether the Windows Arcade Edition can be upgraded. |
Test Drive: Ferrari Racing Legends | Store | |
Toy Soldiers | Store | Can choose between GFWL and Steamworks. GFWL version is still included but can be completely ignored. |
Virtua Tennis 4 | Store |
Legacy Titles
- Simple product key check; requires internet access for online profile but does not attach the key to your Microsoft account.
- Activation limit between 10-20 (usually 15) for online profiles; Microsoft support can help reset the limit but will not reset a second time; after that you will need to buy the game again.
Name | Link | Notes |
---|---|---|
Batman: Arkham Asylum (non-GOTY) (store page unavailable) | Hub | Single-player only; owners get free upgrade to the Game of the Year Edition which has Steamworks DRM instead of GFWL and SecuROM.[11] |
Battlestations Pacific | Store | |
The Club (store page unavailable) | Hub | |
Fallout 3 | Store | Includes All Five DLC Packs. Single-player only, can be completely ignored (no profile/activation needed). Can be disabled by running the game with the modding tool FOSE (you do not need to install a mod that actually uses it). |
FlatOut: Ultimate Carnage | Store | |
FUEL (store page unavailable) | Hub | |
Grand Theft Auto IV: Complete Edition | Store | |
Grand Theft Auto IV | Store | |
Grand Theft Auto: Episodes from Liberty City | Store | |
Juiced 2: Hot Import Nights (store page unavailable) | Hub | |
Kane & Lynch: Dead Men | Store | |
Lost Planet: Extreme Condition Colonies Edition | Store | A non-GFWL version is available (de facto Steamworks because of VAC protection) but note that it lacks the extra content of the Colonies Edition. |
Quantum of Solace (store page unavailable) | Hub | |
Red Faction Guerrilla | Store | |
Resident Evil 5 | Store | |
Star Wars: The Clone Wars – Republic Heroes | Store | |
Stormrise (store page unavailable) | Hub | |
Street Fighter IV | Store | |
Universe at War: Earth Assault (store page unavailable) | Hub | |
Vancouver 2010 (store page unavailable) | Hub | |
Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War II | Store | |
Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War II: Chaos Rising | Store |
Kalypso Launcher
- You can install and play these games without any kind of internet connection (see About Kalypso Launcher).[16]
Name | Link | Notes |
---|---|---|
Airline Tycoon 2 | Store | |
Anna - Extended Edition | Store | |
DARK | Store | |
Demonicon | Store | Login prompts can be cancelled to play the game without an account.[17][18] |
Disciples III: Resurrection | Store | |
DUNGEONS - Steam Special Edition | Store | |
Dungeons - The Dark Lord | Store | |
The First Templar - Steam Special Edition | Store | |
Omerta - City of Gangsters | Store | |
Patrician 4 - Steam Special Edition | Store | |
Pole Position 2012 | Store | |
Rise of Venice | Store | |
Tropico 4: Steam Special Edition | Store |
ManiaPlanet
- Every new Nadeo game requires ManiaPlanet account. More about account can be read here.
Name | Link | Notes |
---|---|---|
ShootMania: Storm | Store | |
TrackMania² Canyon | Store | |
TrackMania² Stadium | Store | |
TrackMania² Valley | Store |
Rockstar Social Club
- About Rockstar Social Club.
- Excluded from Family Sharing.
Name | Link | Notes |
---|---|---|
Grand Theft Auto IV | Store | |
Grand Theft Auto: Episodes from Liberty City | Store | |
Grand Theft Auto IV: Complete Edition | Store | |
L.A. Noire: The Complete Edition | Store | Used for online/community features only. |
Max Payne 3 | Store |
Stardock Account
Stardock distributed their games via Impulse. After they sold it to GameStop in March 2011, Stardock introduced account system for their games to distribute patches and for the official support on forums. Their older games are de facto DRM free after registration, and those games are noted. You can download them any time from your Stardock account. In 2012, Stardock switched to Steamworks because of multiplayer. Those games can't be downloaded from Stardock, only from Steam.
Name | Link | Notes |
---|---|---|
Demigod | Store | After registration, game is de facto DRM free. |
Fallen Enchantress | Store | After registration, game is de facto DRM free. |
Fallen Enchantress: Legendary Heroes | Store | |
Galactic Civilizations II: Ultimate Edition | Store | Only needed for Twilight of the Arnor [GC2TwilightOfTheArnor.exe] expansion pack. After registration, expansion is de facto DRM free. Base game (Dread Lords [GalCiv2.exe]) and Dark Avatar [GC2DarkAvatar.exe] expansion are DRM free (registration is not needed at all). If you register game, it can be only launched via GC2TwilightOfTheArnor.exe. |
The Political Machine 2012 | Store | |
Sins of a Solar Empire: Rebellion | Store | |
Sins of a Solar Empire: Trinity | Store | After registration, base game and both expansions (Entrenchment and Diplomacy) are de facto DRM free. |
Uplay
- Uplay is a digital distribution, DRM, multiplayer and communications service created by Ubisoft.
- Unless otherwise noted, you should be able to access an offline mode after registering and updating the game. Without updating, the game may require a constant connection at all times.
- Some of these games may have trouble with the Uplay launcher. Check here to make sure your game is updating properly.
Name | Link | Notes |
---|---|---|
Anno 2070 | Store | |
Assassin's Creed 2 | Store | |
Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood | Store | Offline mode available without registering/updating the game. Use parameter -playoffline .
|
Assassin's Creed: Revelations | Store | |
Assassin's Creed III | Store | |
Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag | Store | |
Assassin's Creed Liberation HD | Store | |
Call of Juarez: The Cartel | Store | It's both Steamworks and Uplay title. Uplay requirement is not put in Store page, but you need it for launch and its achievements. |
Child of Light | Store | |
Driver: San Francisco | Store | |
Far Cry 3 | Store | |
Far Cry 3 - Blood Dragon | Store | |
Flashback | Store | |
From Dust | Store | Once the game is installed from Steam, you can play in offline mode without ever having to log into Uplay: Before launching the game for the first time, run the UbisoftGameLauncherInstaller from your steamapps\common\From Dust\Support\Ubisoft folder, then create a new firewall rule to block the installed Ubisoft Launcher. If you run the game without doing this first, the launcher will update Uplay, and you will have to register the game and log in at least once before you can play offline. |
Might & Magic Heroes VI | Store | Required for activation and online features.
Includes Pirates of the Savage Sea Adventure Pack and Danse Macabre Adventure Pack expansions. |
Might & Magic Heroes VI: Shades of Darkness | Store | |
Might & Magic X - Legacy | Store | |
Prince of Persia: The Forgotten Sands | Store | |
Rayman Legends | Store | |
Rocksmith 2014 | Store | |
R.U.S.E. | Store | When the game is first time launched, it is needed to be registered (Ubisoft account). Uplay is optional for Uplay achievements and gifts even store's page said "requires a UPlay account". |
The Settlers 7 | Store | Can now be played in offline mode.[19] |
Silent Hunter 5 | Store | |
Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon: Future Soldier | Store | |
Tom Clancy's H.A.W.X. 2 | Store | Can now be played in offline mode.[19] |
Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell: Blacklist | Store | Requires Uplay in online mode for save and load features to function. |
Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell: Conviction | Store | |
Trials Evolution: Gold Edition | Store | |
Trials Fusion | Store | |
Watch Dogs | Store |
Other Account-based DRM
- This list does not include Free to Play (F2P) games, which almost always require a separate account, and every one of them has in game store. F2P games are found here.
Name | Link | Notes |
---|---|---|
AirBuccaneers | Store | You need AirBuccaneers account to play game. More info here. |
Airline Tycoon 2 | Store | Account and log-in required to play (single-player included). |
APOX | Store | Proprietary server connection. There is no authentication, but a constant Internet connection is required for anything other than campaign, skirmish and tutorial. |
AudioSurf | Store | Account required for leaderboard feature. |
Battle Worlds: Kronos | Store | Online play requires a King Art account. |
Crysis 2 (store page unavailable) | Hub | Online play requires a MyCrysis account. |
Crysis 2 - Maximum Edition | Store | Online play requires a MyCrysis account. |
Darkfall Unholy Wars | Store | This game is MMO but AV account is optional and is for the support, official forums and for character deletion. If you do, then you should only register through the patcher which will link your Steam account with AV account. |
Damned | Store | Must activate key with a 9heads Account and log in every time to play.[20][21] |
Dawn of Fantasy: Kingdoms Wars | Store | This game is MMORTS so you need to open a separate account. |
Defiance | Store | This game is MMO and you need to open Trion Worlds account. |
Delta Force: Xtreme 2 | Store | Must create an account and "activate"; through the game to play. |
Final Fantasy VII | Store | Uses Square Enix online store for activation. You must create a Square Enix account and log in before you can play. |
Final Fantasy VIII | Store | Uses Square Enix online store for activation. You must create a Square Enix account and log in before you can play. |
Frozen Synapse | Store | Must create an account and "activate" through the game for online features. |
Galaxy on Fire 2: Full HD | Store | Must be online via Steam when starting game. More here. |
Ironclad Tactics | Store | Tries to connect to a server even for single player; can be overridden by setting "force offline mode" in options.[22] |
Interstellar Marines | Store | You can optionally open an account at interstellarmarines.com for connecting your Steam account and your Interstellar Marines website account. |
Leviathan: Warships | Store | Multiplayer requires the creation of an account which is handled by Paradox servers. |
Metal Drift | Store | Must create an account to play. There is no offline mode; you must log in to your account every time you start the game. |
The Mighty Quest for Epic Loot | Store | Requires a Uplay account but does not use the Uplay client.[23] |
Plain Sight | Store | Activation through Beatnik servers, requires log-in to play. |
Pro Evolution Soccer 2013 | Store | KONAMI ID is needed for online play. There are multiple reports like this one that you need to be online when starting game. It's not clear if you have to be online all the time. |
Resident Evil 6 | Store | You can optionally open an account at Resident Evil.net for additional features. |
Resident Evil: Revelations | Store | You can optionally open an account at Resident Evil.net for additional features. |
Rise of Flight: Channel Battles Edition | Store | Must activate game by making a Rise of Flight account (internet connection required); see step-by-step instructions.[24] |
Rise of the Triad | Store | Multiplayer requires the creation of an account on the ROTT Multiplayer network. |
Saints Row: The Third | Store | THQ account required for community features. |
Sang-Froid - Tales of Werewolves | Store | Must be online via Steam when starting game. Developers claim it's bug, but it's not fixed. Discussion here. |
Starlight Inception | Store | Must be online via Steam when starting the game. Developers say this will be removed in a future update.[25] |
Stellar Impact | Store | You need an account to play game. |
Torchlight II | Store | Runic account is needed for online play. More info here. |
Trackmania Nations Forever | Store | Trackmania account required for online features. |
Trackmania United Forever | Store | Trackmania account required for online features. |
Turba | Store | Account required for leaderboards. |
Victory: The Age of Racing | Store | Requires an account on the developer's site. Requires a constant internet connection for all game modes.[26] |
Wargame: European Escalation | Store | When you start the game, you are asked to connect to Eugen.net game server. Eugen.net handles multiplayer system, as well as friend list. |
Wargame: Airland Battle | Store | When you start the game, you are asked to connect to Eugen.net game server. Eugen.net handles multiplayer system, as well as friend list. |
Wings of Prey | Store | Requires a YuPlay account for multiplayer. |
Hardware-based DRM
Hardware-based DRM uses components of the PC such as the MAC address of network adapter(s) and serial number(s) of hard drive(s)to create a hash or signature which is used for identification of the PC in the DRM activation process. When a game which incorporates this type of DRM is run, it checks that the current components of the PC match the hash/signature which was created and stored during the previously completed activation. The tolerance for matching this hash varies by game, but in general if a significant component or components of the PC which comprise the hash have changed, the DRM will require a new activation to play the game. If an activation limit exists and is reached, the game will refuse to install or play. In most cases where this type of DRM is used, there will be methods to either revoke activations or reset the limit so a new activation is performed. These will be noted at the bottom of their respective sections below.
SecuROM
- To revoke SecuROM activations, see popular titles; for EA games with SecuROM "released after May 2008" use the EA Game Authorization Management Tool.
- Activations can usually be revoked by using the
/revoke
command-line switch when running the game's main executable or launcher. If that does not work, contact support. - Use the Removal Tool to remove SecuROM activation information (after revoking the activations, if applicable).
Name | Link | Notes |
---|---|---|
Age of Booty | Store | Machine limit is raised from 5 to 20 according to the developer.[27] |
Alone in the Dark | Store | Activation limit is not known.[28] |
Batman: Arkham Asylum (non-GOTY) (store page unavailable) | Hub | 4 activations per month. A revoke tool is available in your Steam Tools section. Non-GOTY owners get GOTY version for free[11] which has Steamworks DRM instead of SecuROM and GFWL.[10] |
Batman: Arkham City (non-GOTY) (store page unavailable) | Hub | 5 machine limit, 10 activations per machine. Non-GOTY owners get GOTY version for free[11] which has Steamworks DRM instead of SecuROM and GFWL.[10] |
Blood Bowl: Dark Elves Edition (store page unavailable) | Hub | 5 machine limit |
Blood Bowl: Legendary Edition | Store | 5 machine limit |
Borderlands DLC Pack (store page unavailable) | Store | Used for 2 of the 4 included DLC packs (shown below). |
Borderlands: Game of the Year | Store | Used for 2 of the 4 included DLC packs (shown below). |
Borderlands: The Zombie Island of Dr. Ned | Store | 5 machine limit |
Borderlands: Mad Moxxi's Underdome Riot | Store | 5 machine limit |
Cities XL 2011 | Store | 5 machine limit |
Colin McRae DiRT 2 | Store | Used for CD check only. |
Crysis | Store | 50 machine limit |
Crysis Warhead | Store | 50 machine limit |
Dark Void | Store | Machine limit is raised from 5 to 20 according to the developer.[27] |
Dark Void Zero | Store | Machine limit is raised from 5 to 20 according to the developer.[27] Store page has not been updated. |
DiRT 3 | Store | Activation limit unknown |
Fable III (store page unavailable) | Hub | 5 activations per month |
Flock! | Store | Machine limit is raised from 5 to 20 according to the developer.[27] |
FUEL | Store | Unlimited activations |
Grand Theft Auto IV: Complete Edition | Store | Used in GTA IV and its expansions as noted below. |
Grand Theft Auto IV | Store | Unlimited activations |
Grand Theft Auto: Episodes from Liberty City | Store | 15 machine limit |
Major League Baseball 2K9 | Store | Used for CD check only. |
Mass Effect | Store | Found on the DLC installers only, SecuROM removable post-installation. 3 machine limit. |
Medal of Honor | Store | Single-player portion only, 5 machine limit, 1 activation added every 60 days. |
Neopets Puzzle Adventure (store page unavailable) | Hub | 5 machine limit |
The Sims Medieval | Store | 5 machine limit using new "Content Protection" by "Sony DADC Austria AG".[29] |
Test Drive Unlimited 2 | Store | 4 machine limit |
StarForce/ACTControl
StarForce
- StarForce ProActive is contained to the folder of the game using it. It does not make registry entries or install drivers. Activation/deactivation instructions
Name | Link | Notes |
---|---|---|
DCS A-10C Warthog | Store | 10 machine activation limit. 10 deactivations. After no activations remain, 1 more is generated in a month. |
DCS Black Shark 2 | Store | 10 machine activation limit. 10 deactivations. After no activations remain, 1 more is generated in a month. |
DCS Combined Arms | Store | 10 machine activation limit. 10 deactivations. After no activations remain, 1 more is generated in a month. |
DCS Mi-8 MTV2 Magnificent Eight | Store | 10 machine activation limit. 10 deactivations. After no activations remain, 1 more is generated in a month. |
DCS P-51D Mustang | Store | 10 machine activation limit. 10 deactivations. After no activations remain, 1 more is generated in a month. |
DCS UH-1H Huey | Store | 10 machine activation limit. 10 deactivations. After no activations remain, 1 more is generated in a month. |
DCS Flaming Cliffs 3 | Store | 10 machine activation limit. 10 deactivations. After no activations remain, 1 more is generated in a month. |
A-10A DCS Flaming Cliffs | Store | 10 machine activation limit. 10 deactivations. After no activations remain, 1 more is generated in a month. |
Su-25 DCS Flaming Cliffs | Store | 10 machine activation limit. 10 deactivations. After no activations remain, 1 more is generated in a month. |
DCS World | Store | F2P game but uses StarForce Proactive DRM for its DLCs (detailed above); also see info on lost activations. |
ACTControl
- ACTControl is a fork of StarForce AAA Protection. It is unknown if this is either a genuine fork or a replacement of StarForce.
- Games can be activated/deactivated with
ACPC.EXE
in the installation folder or with the online activation page.
Name | Link | Notes |
---|---|---|
Disciples III - Reincarnation | Store | 5 machine limit |
Postal 3 | Store | 2 machine limit |
Pro Cycling Manager 2012 | Store | 5 machine limit |
Pro Cycling Manager 2013 | Store | 5 machine limit |
TAGES/SolidShield
TAGES
- TAGES does not support revoking activations;[30] activations automatically regenerate on a timer, usually one every 30 days.
- Use TagesSetup to remove the TAGES drivers from your computer.
Name | Link | Notes |
---|---|---|
Anno 1404/Dawn of Discovery | Store | 3 machine limit. Activation removed in patch 1.1 for retail. |
Anno 1404/Dawn of Discovery: Venice Expansion | Store | 3 machine limit |
The Chronicles of Riddick: Assault on Dark Athena (store page unavailable) | Hub | 3 machine limit, 1 activation added back every 30 days. |
nail'd | Store | 3 machine limit, 1 activation added back every 30 days. 5 revocations allowed per month. |
James Cameron's Avatar: The Game (store page unavailable) | Hub | 3 machine limit, 1 activation added back every 30 days. |
SolidShield
- SolidShield is TAGES’ new DRM technology. It is presumed that this is their replacement for TAGES.
- To revoke activations for EA games with SolidShield "released after May 2008" use the EA Game Authorization Management Tool.
- To revoke activations for other games use the executable in the game's folder (usually called
activation.exe
); see Activation and revocation client for further details.
Name | Link | Notes |
---|---|---|
A Game of Thrones – Genesis | Store | 5 machine limit |
Anno 2070 | Store | 3 machine limit.[31][32] |
Crysis 2 (store page unavailable) | Hub | 5 machine limit. Maximum Edition does not have SolidShield. |
Dead Space 2 | Store | 5 machine limit |
Shift 2 Unleashed | Store | 5 machine limit |
Other Hardware-based DRM
Name | Link | Notes |
---|---|---|
3SwitcheD | Store | Proprietary activation limit (Reality Pump), limit unknown. DRM has reportedly made the game unplayable for some players.[33] |
ARMA III | Store | DEGRADE (ex-FADE) is an invisible, ingame, check of CD key. No activation limit. |
Chicken Shoot Gold | Store | Proprietary activation limit (Reality Pump), limit unknown. |
Doom Rails | Store | Themida. 5 machine limit. |
Dream Pinball 3D | Store | Proprietary activation limit (Reality Pump), limit unknown. |
Earth 2150 Trilogy | Store | Proprietary activation limit (Reality Pump), limit unknown. |
Earth 2160 | Store | Proprietary activation limit (Reality Pump), 3 machine activation limit. To reset activations follow instructions here or use phone support (phone number in-game). |
Football Manager 2009 (store page unavailable) | Hub | Uniloc, 5 machine limit |
Gatling Gears | Store | EA Access. 5 activation limit per 24 hours. |
Heli Heroes | Store | Proprietary activation limit (Reality Pump), limit unknown. |
Iron Sky: Invasion | Store | Proprietary activation limit (Reality Pump), limit unknown. |
KnightShift | Store | Proprietary activation limit (Reality Pump), limit unknown. |
L.A. Noire: The Complete Edition | Store | GameShield Ironwrap & Patcher. Machine limit explicitly not available per Rockstar policy, but is likely unlimited on Steam.[34] |
Max Payne 3 | Store | GameShield Ironwrap & Patcher. Machine limit explicitly not available per Rockstar policy. |
Monster Trucks Nitro | Store | Activated through RedLynx servers. Activation limit exists, but is unknown and can be reset.[35] |
Spectromancer | Store | Proprietary activation method though CD key. 5 machine limit. To reset your activation limit, contact support here. |
Two Worlds Epic Edition | Store | Proprietary activation limit (Reality Pump), limit unknown. If limit is reached, contact support. |
Two Worlds II | Store | Proprietary "Aktivierung" system (Reality Pump), 3 machine limit |
Two Worlds II Castle Defense | Store | Proprietary "Aktivierung" system (Reality Pump), 3 machine limit |
World War II: Panzer Claws | Store | Proprietary "Aktivierung" system (Reality Pump), 5 machine activation limit |
World War III: Black Gold | Store | Proprietary "Aktivierung" system (Reality Pump), 5 machine activation limit |
X-Blades | Store | Proprietary activation method through CD key. 3 machine limit. If limit is reached contact support. |
Inert DRM
Some games on Steam contain remnants of DRM that has been removed (e.g. S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Clear Sky or Dead Space) or DRM files which are not used unless you attach a DRM expansion pack or DLC to the game (e.g. Borderlands). The DRM files do nothing, install nothing and are completely inert unless otherwise noted.
SecuROM
Name | Link | Notes |
---|---|---|
Arcania: Gothic 4 | Store | SecuROM. Installs files that can be safely removed without the Removal Tool.[36] |
Batman: Arkham Asylum Game of the Year Edition | Store | SecuROM patched out of main executable; SecuROM paul.dll remains but does nothing and the game still works if it is deleted.[37]
|
Borderlands | Store | It is activated upon installation of either The Zombie Island of Dr. Ned or Mad Moxxi's Underdome Riot. Both The Secret Armory of General Knoxx and Claptrap's Robot Revolution are SecuROM free, and thus will not activate the inert files (assuming you did not buy/activate the first two expansions). |
Cities XL 2012 (store page unavailable) | Hub | |
Crysis Warhead | Store | Crysis Wars is inert. Crysis Warhead itself is still active. |
Dead Space | Store | |
Dark Messiah of Might & Magic | Store | SecuROM 7 on single player executable.[38] Appears to be inactive.[39] |
Divinity II: The Dragon Knight Saga (store page unavailable) | Hub | SecuROM removed for 1.4.9.70 patch; owners got a free copy of Developer's Cut on October 29, 2012 which is DRM free.[40] |
Dungeons and Dragons: Daggerdale | Store | |
Far Cry 2: Fortune's Edition | Store | SecuROM removed in 1.03 update despite store page's notes, but some files still remain. |
F.E.A.R. | Store | SecuROM is activated on launching (the now defunct) multiplayer. The singleplayer parts of the game contain no third party DRM. |
Gothic II: Gold Edition | Store | |
Hospital Tycoon | Store | |
Kohan: Ahriman's Gift | Store | |
Legendary | Store | SecuROM patched out of main executable; SecuROM paul.dll remains but does nothing and the game still works if it is deleted.
|
Men of War | Store | |
The Misadventures of P.B. Winterbottom | Store | |
Overlord | Store | |
SpellForce – Platinum Edition | Store | |
Star Wars Republic Commando | Store | |
The Witcher 2: Assassins of Kings | Store | SecuROM was removed via 1.1 patch for retail. Steam version has inert files. Game is DRM free and you can use CD key for the free DRM free backup on GOG.com and for the bonus content. |
StarForce/ACTControl
Name | Link | Notes |
---|---|---|
Still Life | Store | StarForce |
Syberia | Store | StarForce |
Syberia 2 | Store | StarForce |
TAGES/SolidShield
Name | Link | Notes |
---|---|---|
Gothic 3 | Store | SolidShield |
Jack Keane | Store | SolidShield |
Risen | Store | TAGES. Delete TAGES files in Redist and bin subfolders to prevent installation.[41] Use TagesSetup to remove if already installed.
|
Silverfall Complete | Store | TAGES |
S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Clear Sky | Store | TAGES |
Other Inert DRM
Name | Link | Notes |
---|---|---|
Alpha Protocol | Store | Uniloc removed in patch 1.1, but files remain. |
Removed DRM
- These games had DRM in retail form, or had it on digital storefronts in the past, but it has been entirely removed; these are listed below to help cautious shoppers.
Name | Link | Notes |
---|---|---|
All games from Telltale Games | Link | SecuROM on retail and some other digital distributors. Exceptions are The Walking Dead and Poker Night series (Steamworks). |
Ace Combat: Assault Horizon - Enhanced Edition | Store | Games for Windows - LIVE removed in April 1, 2014 update.[8] |
Angry Birds Space | Store | Proprietary activation system on the Angry Birds shop and retail. |
Anomaly: Warzone Earth | Store | SecuROM on GamersGate. |
ARMA: Combat Operations | Store | SecuROM removed via patch. Game is DRM free. |
ARMA II | Store | SecuROM and FADE removed via patch. Game is DRM free. |
ARMA II: Operation Arrowhead | Store | SecuROM removed via patch. Game is DRM free. |
Assassin's Creed Brotherhood | Store | SolidShield on other digital distributors. |
Batman: Arkham City GOTY | Store | GFWL and SecuROM removed.[10] Non-GOTY owners get GOTY upgrade for free.[11] Retail/GFWL keys added to Steam DB for activation. |
Battlefield: Bad Company 2 | Store | SecuROM or disc check on retail. SecuROM removed from Steam version in patch 522175. |
Bionic Commando | Store | SecuROM on retail. |
Bionic Commando: Rearmed | Store | SecuROM on retail. |
BioShock | Link | SecuROM on retail and from other digital distributors. SecuROM removed from the Steam version of the game in an update after its initial release due to outcry from customers. It was replaced with Steam's "stub" form of DRM. |
BioShock 2 | Store | SecuROM and GFWL removed on October 3, 2013.[9] |
Blade Kitten | Store | SecuROM on retail. |
Brothers In Arms: Road to Hill 30 | Store | StarForce on retail. |
Brothers In Arms: Earned in Blood | Store | StarForce on retail. |
Brothers In Arms: Hell's Highway | Store | SecuROM on retail. |
Command & Conquer: Red Alert 3 | Store | SecuROM on retail, removed from the Steam version via patch. |
Command & Conquer: Red Alert 3 - Uprising | Store | SecuROM on retail. |
Company of Heroes | Store | There is no more Relic account from 7th May as CoH series completely moved to Steamworks because of SEGA's purchase of Relic. |
Company of Heroes: Opposing Fronts | Store | There is no more Relic account from 7th May as CoH series completely moved to Steamworks because of SEGA's purchase of Relic. |
Company of Heroes: Tales of Valor | Store | There is no more Relic account from 7th May as CoH series completely moved to Steamworks because of SEGA's purchase of Relic. |
Confrontation | Store | ACTControl is removed. There is still key for online play.[42] |
Crysis 2 - Maximum Edition | Store | SolidShield on original Crysis 2 release and on Origin. The Steam version of the game contains Steam's "stub" form of DRM. It is not DRM-free.[43] |
Deadly Premonition: The Director's Cut | Store | SecuROM on GamersGate version; Steam version has only Steam DRM.[44] |
Deus Ex: Invisible War | Link | SecuROM disc check on retail. SecuROM\Locale registry subfolder is a harmless error remnant; no SecuROM data is written.[45]
|
Dragon Age II (store page unavailable) | Hub | SecuROM on retail. |
Divinity II: Developer's Cut | Store | Game is DRM free. Free upgrade for owners of Divinity II: Ego Draconis or Divinity II: The Dragon Knight Saga.[40] |
Dreamfall: The Longest Journey | Store | StarForce removed via patch. |
Game of Thrones | Store | ACTControl on other digital versions.[46][47] |
Grand Theft Auto III | Store | SecuROM on other digital versions.[48] |
Grand Theft Auto: Vice City | Store | SecuROM on retail and other digital versions.[48] |
Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas | Store | SecuROM on retail and other digital versions.[49] |
Grotesque Tactics: Evil Heroes | Store | SecuROM on retail. |
GT Legends | Store | StarForce on retail. Relaunched Simbin digital version (Steam exclusive) is DRM free. |
GTR – FIA GT Racing Game | Store | StarForce on retail. Relaunched Simbin digital version (Steam exclusive) is DRM free. |
GTR 2 – FIA GT Racing Game | Store | SecuROM on retail. Relaunched Simbin digital version (Steam exclusive) is DRM free. |
Hamilton's Great Adventure | Store | SecuROM on GamersGate. |
Heroes of Might & Magic V | Store | SecuROM on retail, but was removed with the last patch. TAGES on GamersGate. |
Heroes of Might & Magic V: Hammers of Fate | Store | SecuROM on retail. TAGES on GamersGate. |
Hitman: Blood Money | Store | SecuROM on retail and GamersGate. |
IL-2 Sturmovik: Cliffs of Dover | Store | SolidShield removed via patch. |
Insanely Twisted Shadow Planet | Store | Games for Windows Live replaced by Steamworks in update.[13] |
Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning | Link | All non-Steam versions require Origin; Steam version uses Steamworks instead. Prompts for EA Account; close prompt(s) to skip.[4] |
King's Bounty: Armored Princess | Store | SecuROM on retail and some other digital distributors. |
King's Bounty: Crossworlds | Store | StarForce on retail and some other digital distributors. |
King's Bounty: The Legend | Store | StarForce or SecuROM on retail (depends on market). |
Medieval II: Total War | Store | Includes Kingdoms expansion. SecuROM on retail and some other digital distributors. |
Men of War: Assault Squad | Store | SecuROM on retail and some other digital distributors. |
Men of War: Condemned Heroes | Store | SecuROM on retail and some other digital distributors. |
Men of War: Vietnam | Store | SecuROM on retail and some other digital distributors. |
Manhunt | Store | SecuROM on retail and other digital distributors. |
Miner Wars 2081 | Store | Always online requirement removed from single-player campaign. |
Need For Speed: Hot Pursuit | Store | SolidShield on retail and Origin. |
Neverwinter Nights 2 Platinum (store page unavailable) | Hub | SecuROM removed in patch/hotfix 1.23.1765. |
Of Orcs and Men | Link | ACTControl removed via patch.[50] |
Prince of Persia: The Two Thrones | Store | StarForce on retail. TAGES on GamersGate. |
Rayman Origins | Store | TAGES on other digital distributors. Steam and retail versions are DRM free. |
Rig 'n' Roll | Store | StarForce on retail. |
Rome: Total War: Gold | Store | Includes Alexander expansion. SecuROM on retail and some other digital distributors. |
Sacred 2 Gold | Store | SecuROM on original Sacred 2. Gold version is DRM-free except on Steam where it contains Steam's "Stub" form of DRM. |
Secret Files Tunguska | Store | TAGES on retail. |
Secret Files 2: Puritas Cordis | Store | TAGES removed via patch. |
Shank | Store | SolidShield removed via patch. |
Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened – Remastered | Store | SolidShield removed via patch. |
Sherlock Holmes versus Jack the Ripper | Store | TAGES removed via patch. |
Sid Meier's Civilization IV | Store | Includes Warlords and Beyond the Sword expansions. SecuROM removed via patch. Retail version is DRM free. |
Silent Hunter III | Store | StarForce on retail. TAGES on GamersGate. |
The Sims 3 | Store | Includes all expansions (most recent: Showtime). SecuROM, disc check only on retail, 5 machine limit on other digital distributions. |
Thief: Deadly Shadows | Store | SecuROM disc check on retail. SecuROM\Locale registry subfolder is a harmless error remnant; no SecuROM data is written.[45]
|
Spore | Store | SecuROM on retail. |
Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic | Store | SecuROM on retail. |
The Testament of Sherlock Holmes | Store | ACTControl removed via patch. |
Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell: Chaos Theory | Store | StarForce on retail release, removed from the Steam version via patch. The Steam version of the game now uses Steam's "stub" form of DRM. It is not DRM-free. |
Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell: Double Agent | Store | SecuROM removed in patch 1.02a. |
Trackmania Nations Forever | Store | StarForce removed in the "Forever" update.[51] |
Trackmania United Forever | Store | StarForce removed in the "Forever" update.[51] |
Wargame: European Escalation | Store | ACTControl removed via patch.[52] |
Wings of Prey | Store | StarForce on retail, removed from Steam version via patch. |
The Witcher: Enhanced Edition Director's Cut | Store | TAGES removed in patch 1.5. Game is DRM free but you can use CD key for free DRM backup on GOG.com and for the bonus content. |
X³: Terran Conflict | Store | TAGES removed from all versions in patch 2.5.[53][54] |
Zeit² | Store | SolidShield removed via patch. |
Miscellaneous (not DRM)
- These games use no third-party DRM but have behaviour that can appear similar so are included here for completeness.
Name | Link | Notes |
---|---|---|
A Valley Without Wind | Store | Requires included key to leave trial mode. Unlock process is done completely offline and installs nothing.[55] |
A Valley Without Wind 2 | Store | Requires included key to leave trial mode. Unlock process is done completely offline and installs nothing.[55] |
References
- ↑ Darkspore Forums • View topic - Darkspore Delist FAQ
- ↑ EA Service Updates
- ↑ Does DLC need EA login? :: Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning™ General Discussions
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 EA account required, or not? - Steam Users' Forums
- ↑ http://www.poweredbygamespy.com/pricing/
- ↑ http://www.pcgamer.com/2014/04/10/old-battlefield-games-will-survive-the-gamespy-shutdown/
- ↑ 7.0 7.1 http://support.2k.com/hc/en-us/articles/201967707-2K-Online-Server-Migration-from-GameSpy-Technology/
- ↑ 8.0 8.1 Ace Combat Assault Horizon enhanced Edition title Update - Game for Windows Live functionalities replaced by Steamworks funtionalities.
- ↑ 9.0 9.1 News - BioShock 2 Updated
- ↑ 10.0 10.1 10.2 10.3 10.4 10.5 SECUROM AND GFWL IS NOW GONE!!! :: Batman: Arkham Asylum GOTY Edition General Discussions
- ↑ 11.0 11.1 11.2 11.3 11.4 11.5 11.6 Non-GOTY owners getting GOTY for FREE :: Batman: Arkham Asylum GOTY Edition General Discussions
- ↑ Twitter / Codemasters: @TweetingTommy32 We are working ...
- ↑ 13.0 13.1 GFWL Removed from Insanely Twisted Shadow Planet on Steam - NeoGAF
- ↑ Blog | Age of Empires Online - The Rest of AOEO
- ↑ Marketplace close microsoft flight down? :: Microsoft Flight Support
- ↑ Kalypso Launcher: Information and FAQ (EN)
- ↑ When a fight starts the game hangs :: Demonicon General Discussions
- ↑ kalypso launcher? :: Demonicon General Discussions
- ↑ 19.0 19.1 Settlers 7 and Hawx 2 now playable in offline mode
- ↑ PROBLEM? CRASH? SOLUTIONS HERE! :: Damned General Discussions
- ↑ What kind of DRM is "9heads"? :: Damned General Discussions
- ↑ Anyone been able to play it? :: Ironclad Tactics General Discussions
- ↑ Beware of Uplay :: The Mighty Quest For Epic Loot General Discussion
- ↑ Rise of Flight: Channel Battles Edition on Steam - GUIDE :: Rise of Flight: Channel Battles Edition General Discussions
- ↑ Linux/Mac Support? :: Starlight Inception General Discussions
- ↑ Internet Required? :: Victory: The Age of Racing General Discussion
- ↑ 27.0 27.1 27.2 27.3 DRM! :: Dark Void Zero General Discussions
- ↑ which copy protection has this version ? :: Alone in the Dark General Discussions
- ↑ News - The Sims Medieval Update Released
- ↑ http://www.tagesprotection.com/activation.htm#revoke
- ↑ Twitter / UbisoftSupport: @LuckiestLion Yes, there is ...
- ↑ Solid Shield during Install + UPlay and Other Notes. :: Anno 2070 General Discussions
- ↑ 3SwitcheD won't start :: 3SwitcheD General Discussions
- ↑ Steam Users' Forums - View Single Post - Unofficial List of Steam Games with DRM
- ↑ Says I used my key on too many computers and will not work. - Steam Users' Forums
- ↑ Unofficial List of Steam Games with DRM - Page 104 - Steam Users' Forums
- ↑ Steam Users' Forums - View Single Post - Unofficial List of Steam Games with DRM
- ↑ Why does steam not mention secuROM? :: Dark Messiah of Might & Magic Single Player General Discussions
- ↑ Steam Users' Forums - View Single Post - Unofficial List of Steam Games with DRM
- ↑ 40.0 40.1 Divinity 2: Developer's Cut and Anthology on Steam - Larian Studios forums
- ↑ Do this step before installing Risen :: Risen General Discussions
- ↑ Steam Users' Forums - View Single Post - Unofficial List of Steam Games with DRM
- ↑ http://store.origin.com/store/eaapac/en_AU/pd/productID.248837800/sac.true
- ↑ Securom? Seriously guys? :: Deadly Premonition: The Director's Cut General Discussions
- ↑ 45.0 45.1 Help! Backing up my Steam backlog..., page 1 - Forum - GOG.com
- ↑ Steam Users' Forums - View Single Post - Manual
- ↑ DRM... still intact? :: Game of Thrones General Discussions
- ↑ 48.0 48.1 Steam Users' Forums - View Single Post - Do the games in the classic pack have SecuRom?
- ↑ Steam Users' Forums - View Single Post - San Andreas - Securom?
- ↑ 3rd Party DRM has been removed as of 7/2/13 :: Of Orcs And Men General Discussions
- ↑ 51.0 51.1 TrackMania#Copy protection system
- ↑ Wargame - Airland Battle • View topic - About DRM: No acpc.exe under my wargame ee folder ?
- ↑ egosoft.com :: View topic - X3: Terran Conflict 2.5 has arrived!
- ↑ Do the Steam versions of the X series of games have DRM? :: X3: Terran Conflict General Discussions
- ↑ 55.0 55.1 AVWW Buy