Denuvo Anti-Tamper: A widely used DRM for modern PC games to prevent piracy, often combined with other platforms like Steam. Known for performance impact in some cases.
Steam Custom Executable Generation (CEG): Valve's DRM for Steam games, binding executables to specific user accounts. Largely phased out for newer titles since 2014.
SecuROM: A DRM used in the 2000s, often requiring disc checks or online activation. Discontinued due to compatibility issues and user backlash.
StarForce: A DRM from the early 2000s, known for strict disc-based protection. Infamous for system stability issues, largely abandoned.
SafeDisc: A disc-based DRM used in the 1990s and 2000s. Discontinued due to compatibility problems with modern Windows versions.
Tages: A DRM system used in the 2000s, primarily in Europe, with disc or online activation. No longer in use.
Games for Windows LIVE (GFWL): Microsoft’s DRM and online service for PC games, requiring online authentication. Discontinued in 2014.
Always-Online DRM: Used in games like Diablo III, requiring constant internet connection for play. Still used in some titles but less common.
CD Key Activation: Simple key-based DRM requiring a unique code for installation or online play. Still used but often paired with other systems.
Physical DRM (Code Wheels, Manuals): Used in older games (e.g., Pool of Radiance), requiring physical items like code wheels or manual lookups. Obsolete for modern games.
Arxan: A DRM and anti-tamper solution used in some modern games, often alongside Denuvo or other systems.
VMProtect: Software protection used in some games, often paired with Denuvo or custom solutions. Still in use for certain titles.
Microsoft PlayReady: Used for multimedia protection in some Windows-based games, less common in gaming but still active.
Uniloc SoftAnchor: A DRM used in the 2000s for some PC games, requiring online activation. Largely discontinued.
FADE: A DRM that degrades game performance if piracy is detected, used in some titles like Operation Flashpoint. Mostly discontinued.
