Ubisoft: Always-on DRM "case-by-case"

Ubisoft will patch out its controversial always-on PC game digital rights management on a case-by-case basis.

Yesterday it emerged that the PC versions of Assassin's Creed II and Splinter Cell: Conviction no longer required an active internet connection to work.

The change caused some to speculate that Ubisoft had ditched its always-on PC game DRM policy. Not so, according to Ubisoft.

Patching out is done on a case-by-case basis, Ubisoft told Shacknews. Future games, including the PC port of Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood, may ship with the always-on DRM.

Ubisoft's controversial DRM launched with The Settlers 7 last April, but was scrapped for the release of the PC version of real-time strategy game RUSE.

Last year Ubisoft's online verification servers suffered digital attacks, which prevented thousands of gamers from playing their games.

In January Ubisoft claimed the goal of its then new PC anti-piracy solution was to "provide added value" and "enrich the gaming experience".

"We know this choice is controversial but we feel is justified by the gameplay advantages offered by the system and because most PCs are already connected to the internet," said the company.

"This platform also offers protection against piracy, an important business element for Ubisoft and for the PC market in general as piracy has an important impact on this market.

"Any initiative that allows us to lower the impact of piracy on our PC games will also allow us to concentrate further effort on the creation and expansion of our intellectual properties for the PC - our goal is to deliver the best gaming experience to our customers."