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Sony has introduced a new DRM protection that initially caused quite a stir among gamers. Reports suggested that PlayStation 5 users would have to connect to the internet every 30 days to maintain access to their digital games. However, it turns out that the actual mechanism may be more complex and at least partially justified.
DRM as a Protection Against Refund Abuse
According to community analyses, the new DRM may be an attempt to limit abuse related to returns in PlayStation Network. The mechanism works such that after purchasing a game, the user receives a temporary license valid for about 30 days, but the critical period is the first approximately 14 days, which is the standard return window. Only after this period expires does the system assign a permanent license, allowing for normal offline play without restrictions. This model would prevent situations where someone buys a game, uses an exploit to retain the license, and then returns the purchase yet continues to play without network access. If this theory is true, Sony is trying to close a loophole that could have cost the company real money.
There are still reasons for concern
Although the new DRM may make sense from a security perspective, it raises significant doubts among players. The problem primarily lies in the lack of clear communication from Sony; users are not informed that their game may require an internet connection within a certain timeframe after purchase. For individuals with limited internet access, this can be a real impediment, especially if they do not manage to "activate" their full license within the required period. Even if the restriction is temporary, the very necessity of a one-time online connection can be problematic and undermines the idea of full ownership of digital games.
Sony's new DRM may be a clever way to combat abuse, but at the same time, it shows how complicated the digital distribution market is becoming. Without clear rules and communication, such solutions can easily turn against users.
source: techpowerup
