EA’s upcoming open-world RPG, Dragon Age: The Veilguard, is set to launch on PC without Denuvo or any third-party DRM. This decision, confirmed in a recent blog post outlining PC specifications and release times, is a significant advantage for PC gamers. While preloading won’t be available on PC (unlike Xbox Series X/S and PlayStation 5), the absence of DRM offers several benefits.
A character draws a bow in Dragon Age: The Veilguard.
Understanding DRM and its Potential Impact
DRM, or digital rights management, is a method employed by game publishers to combat piracy. It verifies licenses upon game launch. While often unobtrusive, DRM has historically caused issues. For instance, in 2021, a Denuvo problem prevented access to several offline single-player games. Such incidents raise concerns about accessibility, particularly if the DRM service fails or the game is delisted.
Performance Concerns and Past Examples
A frequent complaint regarding DRM is its potential impact on performance. Numerous tests suggest DRM can contribute to frame rate drops and increased loading times. A notable example is Digital Foundry’s analysis of Resident Evil Village, revealing superior performance in the cracked, DRM-free version compared to the official release. Capcom later patched the game to address these performance discrepancies.
DRM-Free Alternatives and The Veilguard’s Approach
Gamers seeking DRM-free experiences often turn to platforms like GOG and the Humble Store. EA’s decision to forgo DRM for Dragon Age: The Veilguard is a welcome move for a significant portion of the PC gaming community.
Additional PC-Friendly Features
Beyond the DRM-free release, EA and BioWare have implemented other PC-centric features. The game is Steam Deck verified and doesn’t require the EA app, which isn’t natively supported on the Steam Deck. This avoids the inconvenience of additional accounts and software for Steam users.
Conclusion: A Positive Step for PC Gamers
The DRM-free launch of Dragon Age: The Veilguard on PC demonstrates a commitment to player experience. By eliminating potential performance issues and accessibility concerns associated with DRM, EA is providing a more streamlined and enjoyable gaming experience for PC players. This, combined with the Steam Deck verification and independence from the EA app, positions The Veilguard as a promising PC release.
