rjbuffchix: Could you explain to me why your hypothetical "pirates on MP" represents a "problem"? For that matter, wouldn't it even be a potential GAIN if it increased the playerbase and lifespan of the game? Regardless, my point is that it is a made-up "problem". Companies say it is a "problem" the way they see it, sure, but
objectively speaking it shouldn't make any difference to the game itself. What objective difference does it make to the game itself?
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That's how a free market could basically work. What we have in PC gaming (let alone elsewhere) is not that. I do not wish to run afoul of the rules so I'm afraid I can't engage in more discussion on that point, lest it delve into political talk :) Needless to say, it is not as simple in the current gaming market as "vote with your wallet", because not only are DRM-free customers an utter minority that companies are actively seeking to eradicate, there are "whales" that would support the most DRM-filled of games, even if DRM-free gamers were a majority of consumers!!
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I want to emphasize that last sentence, because the implications are very depressing for gamers who want deep, quality games with no strings attached.
There is no end in sight for the DRM and online-only practices even if a majority of customers agree they are practices to be avoided. Rather the companies will give you the following choice: accept games with these practices built-in, or don't play the games/have a VERY limited selection of games in comparison. Don't believe me? Look at the mobile gaming market.
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You're right in the sense that "DRM" would need to be defined as a term. Using the criteria from FCKDRM.com, I would say it looks pretty concrete as to any account or client for multiplayer. What do you say?
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First they came for the multiplayer gamers...
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Complaining about these practices loudly IS a form of action. Not supporting these practices IS a form of action. In any case, since you mentioned that such stalwart people are such a drop in the bucket, what exactly is your idea on how to get companies to listen to them in spite of that? In other words, what particular action would "make them change"? Imo, the only way people or companies will change their ways is for others to realize the negatives of DRM, as well as the positives of ownership. There is a huge media and societal push in the opposite directions, btw, so this is made even more difficult.
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Yes, I will point out the "it could be worse..." fallacy if you keep committing it. I make no apologies for the fact I value critical thought and seek truth in all things to the best of my ability. Along those lines, you may be surprised (or not) to learn that I don't have much use for optimism as a philosophy. However, I do agree about the importance of acceptance. I very much value acceptance of reality, combined with striving for better (different from rationalizing that things aren't so bad). Let's strive for better!
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No, absolutely not! This very topic is proof!! Look at how Steam took over the PC gaming market. Look at how local forms of multiplayer are now the exception rather than the rule. If you give these companies an inch, they will take a mile, then try to set up tollbooths every five feet. Goodness, man, the timelines of DLC and mobile gaming practices should be even more evidence of how this plays out so very negatively in the current gaming market. There was a time before all this nickel-and-diming, after all!
For starters it's a moral/etc "problem" akin to the same one people tout about pirates playing games in general over not paying for them.
Also the devs made the MP and expect those playing to have paid for the right to do so, as with all other products.....such checks make sure one paid for their copy, and are not that intrusive(when it comes to serial keys).
As for objective difference it makes to the game itself...none most likely, but it is still a problem(moral/legal) for devs to face.
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Vote with your wallet still works.....it's just that many people are too dumb to do so or the whales on the DRM free side(and there are likely some) don't want to bother. Also as I said: social media/etc 'stinks' and outrage could get the ball rolling towards manipulating the market in a way that's more desirable to drm-free gamers....if only some would be brave enough or not too lazy to try.
Also I doubt a few whales would support the
ENTIRE drm gaming industry if DRM free gamers were the majority....how rich do you think they are? o.0
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You seem to act as if that is how things don't normally work in general. One either can partake or choose not to, unless they are rich or influential enough to change the market/system.
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If it were PAID accounts for MP and only some could use them then yes it might be DRM to me, but if the accounts/MP is/are free then no.
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First off, it is a bit offensive(in general, not to me) to equate this with that famous saying as if gamers are being persecuted akin to that level/type/style.
Second, most people are that way....they are more self interested and mainly care about stuff that they like more than other things. That is just human nature.
Also I doubt SP will ever be on the chopping block as without it there is no gaming technically.
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It is action but it is akin to shouting in a soundproof room for others outside said room to hear you....not very effective.....you could shout till you're sore throated and it wouldn't make much difference in said case.
I mentioned ways to fix the situation to one's liking/tastes above(social media outrage/movements/etc, for starters), btw.
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I would cal it a truism rather than a fallacy, as it rings true usually.
Also critical thinking is fine as long as one is able to use it for good and not get stuck on terminology/phrasing/fallacies/etc when talking with someone.
And yes....strive for better, but also be thankful with what one has and realize when change isn't likely or not that likely and be ok with it. :)
(Also also I prefer optimism to pessimism usually)
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It's still a tad hyperbolic, imo.....it's not so bad when we have some new indie devs and even AAA devs workingn towards stuff and practices we like.