let me quote from
Source
Mass Effect uses SecuROM and requires an online activation for the
first time that you play it. Each copy of Mass Effect comes with a CD
Key which is used for this activation and for registration here at the
BioWare Community. Mass Effect does not require the DVD to be in the
drive in order to play, it is only for installation.
After
the first activation, SecuROM requires that it re-check with the server
within ten days (in case the CD Key has become public/warez'd and gets
banned). Just so that the 10 day thing doesn't become abrupt, SecuROM
tries its first re-check with 5 days remaining in the 10 day window. If
it can't contact the server before the 10 days are up, nothing bad
happens and the game still runs. After 10 days a re-check is required
before the game can run.
on page 2 he says:
Yes, EA is ready for us and getting ready for Spore, which will use the same system.
They made a
FAQ about the copy protection, heres a quote of the most relevant stuff
Q: Why does MEPC need to reactivate every 10 days?
A:
MEPC needs to authenticate every 10 days to ensure that the CD key used
for the game is valid. This is designed to reduce piracy and protect
valid CD keys.
Q: What happens if I want to play MEPC but do not have an internet connection?
A:
You cannot play MEPC without an internet connection. MEPC must
authenticate when it is initially run and every 10 days thereafter.
Q:
What happens if I install and activate MEPC with an internet
connection, but then do not have an internet connection after 10 days?
Can I still play MEPC?
A: No. After 10 days the system
needs to re-authenticate via the internet. If you do not have an
internet connection you will not be able to play until you are
reconnected to the internet and able to re-authenticate.
Q: Does the game re-authenticate every 10 game play days or every 10 calendar days?
A: It re-authenticates based on calendar days, not game play days.
WTH is this all about??
ha, they seem to be asking for people to pirate there game so they can play without an internet connection.
And whats with the every 10 day activation?? so if your internet is gone for more then 10 days, you CANT play your legal bought game...
worst copy protection in history