The problem is that the game will need to be reactivated if you change your graphics card. Ubisoft dismiss the outcry saying the ”vast majority” of people aren’t affected.
It was Guru3D that made this borderline crime against the legitimate consumer known as they were unable to review the game because their copy got locked out.
They had contacted Ubisoft’s customer services to get a new key issued but didn’t receive a reply, but were able to play Anno 2070 eventually when developer BlueByte stepped in. Ubisoft has responded to the state of this DRM and amazingly think there’s nothing wrong with its methods.
“This sounds more like a bug than a deliberate choice by Ubi. Is that the case? Will there be a fix forthcoming to ensure people can change basic hardware without losing the ability to play Ubi games?” asked Rock, Paper, Shotgun.
“While it’s correct that copies of Anno include three activations and that changing hardware may trigger the need for reactivation, the vast majority of Anno customers never encounter this scenario,” was Ubisoft’s reply.
”On the rare occasion when a customer does need additional activations, Ubisoft customer service is available to quickly resolve the situation, and we encourage those customers to contact us directly so that we can ensure they are able to continue to enjoy their game.”
Ubisoft insists the DRM isn’t a problem as it leaves behind a config file when you uninstall the title so it knows a reactivation isn’t necessary. Of course this means absolutely nothing if you format your PC as the file is erased with everything else. Ironically if you were to obtain a pirated copy then you’re free of this draconian nightmare.
Your blasé DRM is punishing your paying customers Ubisoft. Period.
