Ubisoft defends piracy plans

Ubisoft has further clarified its intentions to employ an always-on” internet connection policy in some of its future PC releases.

The publisher’s plans have evoked a strong reaction from PC users – as is demonstrated in the comments on MCV’s earlier story – with many fearing that they will be locked out from their titles should their internet connections fail.

Ubisoft’s number one goal is to provide added value that will facilitate and enrich the gaming experience of our PC customers,” UK specialist PR manager Stefano Petrullo said in a statement.

The platform requires a permanent internet connection. We know this choice is controversial but we feel is justified by the gameplay advantages offered by the system and because most PCs are already connected to the internet.

This platform also offers protection against piracy, an important business element for Ubisoft and for the PC market in general as piracy has an important impact on this market. Any initiative that allows us to lower the impact of piracy on our PC games will also allow us to concentrate further effort on the creation and expansion of our intellectual properties for the PC – our goal is to deliver the best gaming experience to our customers.”

Criticisms of Ubisoft’s decision on our earlier MCV story include:

Martin: It is a good idea in principle, but take users in South Africa and other places where broadband is expensive and capped and that adds yet even more cost.”

Chris: This is a bit of a scatter gun solution and it is a solution that favours the urban elite, leaving rural gamers, holidaymakers and even someone who wants to retire to the bedroom, disadvantaged.”

Paul N: If they think this will stop the pirates then Ubisoft may as well pack up now.”