Something else occurred to me... if I understand this right, Spore populates worlds with AI-driven creature designs created by other players. So why doesn't EA just use the Blizzard/WoW model, and store those on a company server that can only be logged into if you have a legit copy and user account? With the WoW client, Blizzard does use some low-level code to check for cheating (bots, etc.), but it's nowhere near as intrusive and nasty as SecureRom, or limited activations.

I suppose that wouldn't work if they're planning on saving money and distributing alien creatures via direct P2P between players or something. But it seems like a golden opportunity to use a very relaxed and non-invasive CP method. You don't pay for a legit copy, you don't get creatures to run your designs against as opponents.