Con-Spore-Acy Part 3
Heaven has no rage like love to hatred turned / Nor hell a fury like a ‘gamer’ scorned. Okay, so I butchered a little Shakespeare there, but it applies.
After a good solid week of players bemoaning the so called Draconian DRM security issues of Spore and the “now you see it, now you don’t” multiple profile support as well, Electronic Arts has finally released a statement via their forums easing the complaints of some.
Though they aren’t removing the DRM installation restrictions (randomly checking activation via the internet, limiting the number of installations), they have loosened it a little (going from 3 to 5 installations, confirming that a machine can be ‘deactivated’ after 5). Additionally, the demi-conspiracy we reported on the multiple profile issue has been (or rather will be shortly) resolved. EA has promised to allow up to 5 profiles to be created under a single login, meaning that family members can create their own online buddy lists, track their own achievements and keep their mad scientist creations separate.
MaxisLucy (assumed a developer/producer for the title) closed out her message with:
“We felt that this was a good step in the right direction to begin to respond to the feedback you have given us and evolve Spore (not with an extra set of arms in this case but definitely using our DNA points for the better good). We are aggressively working on this now; we will get back to you with more information on timing as soon as possible.”
This is a big win for users. Opinions were voiced, strongly and directly, and though the resolutions isn’t perfect, most consider it at least a fair compromise and step in the right direction. Here’s hoping the big companies take the hint that their customers are paying attention and won’t just sit still when they feel they’re being cheated.
