Quote:
Originally Posted by Sneaksie
Steamworks isn't a DRM, it is a bigger thing like framework. It contains Steam DRM, but much more importantly it allows achievements, leaderboard, storing saves in the cloud, that kind of stuff.
Steam DRM is actually one of the less intrusive DRM solutions available now. We decided not to add any third-party DRM like Tages, Proactive or one of others to the game (some titles on Steam have a third-party DRM and some don't), so if you're anti-DRM you can be assured we're not trying to limit a freedom of legitimate buyers while trying to minimize piracy.
As it was already mentioned many times, after installing a Steam game and running it you can switch Steam to offline mode and you won't need to connect to Internet to play. Of course achievements and other online features like cloud stuff won't work, but you'll be able to play the game wherever you want, on a laptop in a middle of a forest if you'd like to. Personally I find this cloud saving very convenient, you can play on different PCs and have your progress synchronized. Of course Steam also means automatically delivered updates so don't forget to connect to Internet sometimes to make sure you won't miss them  |
I will address your response. As I said I use Steam and do not mind purchasing games that use Steamworks. That being said Steamworks is DRM. It ALSO allows for those things you mention, in fact that is why I use Steam, for the convience and other services, such as matchmaking in some games, friends lists, overlay, in-game web browser, etc.
Some people don't want to think "If Valve goes out of business I lose all my games" or "If I can't get online I can't install my game".
Even with offline mode if you want to reinstall you must connect again. Even old style DRM that required a disc in the drive did not require you to ever have an active Internet connection to install.
That is why GOG.com is SO great. You can download the installer and then not worry about it. I have my server with a large RAID 50 array, so I keep all my GOG.com installers there. So no matter what happens, even if a nuclear war happens and the Internet is gone but somehow my computer still works I can install these games.
The reality is that Steam is not very onerus and I hope most people still buy your wonderful game. I already have! But just know that there is a market for the completely DRM free version of the game. I will GLADLY buy this game a second time if and when you release it on GOG.com.
Perhaps to celebrate the release of Warriors of the North you could go back and release Crossworlds and Platinum on GOG.com? I will buy my second copies!
Thanks guys,
Mygaffer