CompuServe Thread

Forum unknown · Software

#Copy Protection

3 messages in this thread
#4811From: Electronic ArtsJan 10, 1986 5:14 PM
We always have and probably always will protect our games. I have yet to hear a valid argument against that. Our utility programs, especially the Deluxe Series, are being released protected for now. However, we are doing lots of research into alternative methods, and are packaging our next release of DPaint with two copies already, plus the ability to purchase more backups. Some of our alternative methods include: starting the program by displaying a black & white digitized picture of the package cover, and having the user tell the program what color a particular object on the package is. (2) having a special phone-order for non-protected disks and having that user's copy programmed to display his Visa/MC card # upon bootup. (3) Having two separate versions, mass market (cheap and protected) and specialty (expensive and non-protected). Any other suggestions for alternative protection are greatly appreciated. Please don't ask us to trust all of you completely. We've been burnt too often by pirates in the past. But we're trying. JJ – EA
#4952From: Dave AdairJan 11, 1986 11:56 PM
I am (kind of) neutral on the subject of copy protection, but as I see it, copy protection only hurts the valid buyer and delays the product slightly from reaching the pirates. Many pirates are MORE 'vengeful', if you want to call it that, when a program is protected. They see it as a challenge and WILL break it, and then pass it on to more people than if it was unprotected in the first place. You've probably heard all this before, but I thought I'd just throw in my two cents worth (actually about $.50 at $6 per hour!) Good luck with your projects…
#4952From: Dave AdairJan 11, 1986 11:56 PM
I am (kind of) neutral on the subject of copy protection, but as I see it, copy protection only hurts the valid buyer and delays the product slightly from reaching the pirates. Many pirates are MORE 'vengeful', if you want to call it that, when a program is protected. They see it as a challenge and WILL break it, and then pass it on to more people than if it was unprotected in the first place. You've probably heard all this before, but I thought I'd just throw in my two cents worth (actually about $.50 at $6 per hour!) Good luck with your projects…