Quote Originally Posted by TinCow View Post
At the end of the day, Valve has proven that DRM can be done in a positive and constructive way. The problem isn't DRM itself, it's bad DRM. Bad DRM does exactly what Mr. Refenes says. Valve's DRM works because the actual DRM aspect of it is incidental to the service. Valve created a system that added massive amount of customer convenience in many areas. The fact that it also operates as DRM is a side-benefit for them.
Bingo. Your last post sounded like you were saying you buy from Steam because of DRM. But, you're really buying from Steam because it's a convenient distribution method that includes other useful features. If it didn't have DRM- if you could play single-player games without having to launch Steam first -I don't think you'd find any gamers boycotting Steam. It's not the DRM you want- it's the features and convenience that Steam offers. I don't know of anyone who would refuse to buy a game because it didn't have DRM. But I know of lots of people who refuse to buy certain games because they do have DRM.

That's the point Refenes was making. DRM itself is always going to be a bad investment. You (the publisher) are spending money on something that will bring you no tangible returns and will likely alienate customers. Don't worry about the DRM and instead worry about taking care of your customers and making them want to buy from you.