Headlines - Atari statement about Alone in the Dark and SecuROM

[HEXUS]

Atari have issued a brief statement concerning SecuROM technology used for Alone in the Dark on the PC.

Read more.

[nichomach]

Well, a couple of things strike me; it's a one-off activation, and doesn't need to phone home periodically, which is OK, and it provides an easy mechanism for de-activating on a specific machine if you want to move it, which is a lot better than OK.

[kalniel]

This is all clear on the back of the box, but nice that they're trying to give as much information as possible, setting up a whole website to explain the (simple in my opinion) system is a good step in communications

EDIT: just noticed you don't even need a net connection on the exact machine you are playing on, you only need a net connection from any computer. Bonus

[Nick]

Yep, those were my thoughts. It (supposedly) deactivates upon uninstallation... which I hope works.

I'm still undecided on having to have a net connection to install and do the first launch of the game though...

If Atari are essentially limiting AitD to gamers with net connections (ok, so those without are rare), then why not save a bundle and make it a download only launch?

[kalniel]

If Atari are essentially limiting AitD to gamers with net connections (ok, so those without are rare), then why not save a bundle and make it a download only launch?

Well you don't need a net connection on the game machine - using one at the library, work, internet cafe etc. all works fine.

Some people just want the box in their hands.

[Bull Dog]

It'll be like Bioshock all over again....couldn't play the frickin game for a whole day cause their stupid servers were overloaded.

[TeePee]

Once asgain copy protection will only inhibit legitimate users. A hacked version of the game will be available within a week of release.

And it will probably be easier to install.

[kalniel]

It'll be like Bioshock all over again....couldn't play the frickin game for a whole day cause their stupid servers were overloaded.

I doubt it - Bioshock had you authenticating the game machine then downloading some data files. AitD just needs a text string which you can get yourself on any computer by going here:

http://www.aitdunlock.com

[noTHINGface]

Why do they not distribute the revoke tool with the software (box or download)? I've not bought the game but in the past (Bioshock) the revoke tools never seem to come with the game. Perhaps they dont have these ready when the software goes to manufacturing? Seems odd to me.

[BlindMelon7]

OH GOD!!! Look at those minimum specs!!! My poor computer I think I will need an upgrade soon. CURSE YOU ALL!!!

[Nick]

I wouldn't worry too much, you're not missing much... find out why in the PC review coming up this afternoon.

[dave87]

What happens if, like me, you've managed to kill a hard disk.

You go through reinstalling things, and end up stuck on Alone in the Dark because you didn't revoke the license key?

[kalniel]

Do you ever like PC games Nick? A lot of your reviews seem negative

What happens if, like me, you've managed to kill a hard disk.

You go through reinstalling things, and end up stuck on Alone in the Dark because you didn't revoke the license key?

I'm not sure how it works, but I'd presume the revoke tool works remotely. You do get more than one install though without needing to revoke.