Ubi clarified when questions arose after Steam updated their product page for Driver: San Francisco. Console versions need one-time activation for features.
”PC version requires permanent internet connection,” twittered Driver’s official channel. ”You can play offline on Xbox360 and PS3. Online Uplay Passport activation required (once) for multiplayer and bonus features,” Ubisoft later added.
”Bear in mind though that the PC version of DRVSF is released simultaneously to consoles.” This hasn’t always been the case with new Ubisoft releases as the PC versions have tended to be launched sometime after - likely to help combat piracy and boost console sales.
Steam’s product page carried a warning: ”3rd-party DRM: Ubisoft’s Online Services Platform. Ubisoft requires a permanent internet connection to play this video game at all times” This led to questions being asked by fans whether Steam was being overcautious.
Uplay Passport is Ubisoft’s own ‘online pass’ system which costs £7.99 on PC and PS3 and 800 Microsoft Points on Xbox 360. Ubisoft’s PC DRM system has been widely criticised since it launched as it demands a constant internet connection even for singleplayer games.
Server trouble in the beginning also caused PC games to be rendered unplayable although Ubisoft has made significant improvements to their reliability now. They’ve also said PC titles may drop the ‘always-on’ requirement after a certain amount of time passes.
Has Driver: San Francisco’s PC DRM demand for internet put you off, videogamer? Driver: San Francisco releases on Xbox 360, PS3 and PC September 2nd.
