Microsoft refuses to support insecure SafeDisc and SecuROM DRM in Windows 10

Reports are hitting the web from gamers who are no longer able to play old, disc-based games that use SafeDisc or certain versions of SecuROM DRM after upgrading to Windows 10. The issue is not a bug, Microsoft revealed it is flat out refusing to support rootkit-like DRM. The reason for this is because it would make Windows 10 less secure, SafeDisc introduced security vulnerabilities in Windows several years ago and now Microsoft is pulling the plug completely stating it can no longer allow such deeply embedded DRM stuff.

This issue was touched upon by Microsoft’s Boris Schneider-Johne at this year’s Gamescom. The video is in German, but in the segment at the timestamp linked above he says:

“Everything that ran in Windows 7 should also run in Windows 10. There are just two silly exceptions: antivirus software and stuff that’s deeply embedded into the system needs updating – but the developers are on it already – and then there are old games on CD-Rom that have DRM. This DRM stuff is also deeply embedded in your system, and that’s where Windows 10 says “sorry, we cannot allow that, because that would be a possible loophole for computer viruses.” That’s why there are a couple of games from 2003-2008 with Securom, etc. that simply don’t run without a no-CD patch or some such. We can just not support that if it’s a possible danger for our users. There are a couple of patches from developers already, and there is stuff like GOG where you’ll find versions of those games that work.”

The comment from Schneider-Johne suggests it primarily affects games from last decade, and reports confirm games affected by this include the original The Sims, Grand Theft Auto 3, Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004 and Crimson Skies.

Gamers who want to play these classics will need to find a workaround. If you're lucky the game developer may have a patch that removes the DRM but in other cases the easiest solution may be to get a no-CD crack from a place like GameCopyWorld. Other possibilities include setting up a dual-boot system with an older version of Windows or buying a DRM-free copy of the game from GOG.

Via: RPS