Driver SF uses always-on DRM

The PC version of Ubisoft’s Driver: San Francisco will require players to have a constant internet connection.

The new was confirmed by Driver and Rabbids community developer Mathieu Willem via Twitter, according to Eurogamer.

Throughout the first half of 2010, Ubisoft faced criticism and even server attacks after it announced that many of its PC games would require constant net connections. The publisher claimed the move was an anti-piracy measure.

More recently, the firm has been quieter on its use of always-on DRM. September release Ruse did not use the system, and Ubisoft decided to remove the restriction from key titles such as Assassin’s Creed II and Splinter Cell: Conviction back in January.

Evidence that Driver SF would revive the always-on restriction first emerged from the game’s page on Steam, which said: "3rd-party DRM: Ubisoft’s Online Services Platform. Ubisoft requires a permanent internet connection to play this video game at all times."

Driver: San Francisco will be released on September 2nd for PC, PS3 and Xbox 360. It will also be the first game to use uPlay Passport, Ubisoft’s take on the divisive Online Pass.