Sega Blog Reveals Uniloc DRM Details for Upcoming Alpha Protocol

Clumsyorchid, who we all know from Sega's official blog and Phantasy Star Universe fame, has posted some details regarding the Uniloc DRM system that will be used in the PC version of Alpha Protocol, Sega's upcoming third-person action role-playing game. Surprisingly, they seem to have struck a relatively fair balance in terms of DRM-imposed restrictions, something that PC gamers usually hate with a passion. Here are some of the details:

The game will use the Uniloc: SoftAnchor DRM system.

An Internet connection is required for activation (though they have a workaround for installing on PCs that don't have Internet access).

An Internet connection is NOT required to play the game.

The disc does not need to be inserted to play the game.

Game can be installed on an unlimited number of PCs over its lifetime and can be actively used on up to five PCs at any given time.

Activation licenses can be easily transferred between computers if you need to deactivate one installation and activate another (access to the PC you are deactivating not required).

A future patch (in 18-24 months) will REMOVE the DRM protection to ensure that you can still install and play your game down the road, even if the Uniloc servers are no longer available.

There seem to be some very reasonable compromises outlined in their DRM implementation. The removal of DRM protection with a future patch is definitely a welcome initiative and the requirements for playing the game are minimal. If this works well, I'm sure we can expect to see similar usage in future Sega titles.

Is Sega setting a new example of reasonable digital rights management that other companies should follow? Post your comments and tell us what you think!