Specifically, games that utilize SafeDisc or Securom DRM probably won’t run. In November 2007, a SafeDisc security hole allowed Windows hackers to execute kernal-level code on user’s PCs – and was later patched by Microsoft.
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Granted, we’re not talking about a lot of titles here.
Microsoft has opted to remove support for SecuROM and SafeDisc from Windows 10 due to security concerns, leaving older games incompatible with the OS. There are just two silly exceptions: “antivirus software and stuff that’s deeply embedded into the system.” said Microsoft’s Boris Schneider, speaking to Rocket Beans TV at Gamescom and translated by Rock Paper Shotgun. 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. ‘This DRM stuff is all so deeply embedded in your system, and that’s where Windows 10 says “sorry, we can not allow that, because that would be a possible loophole for computer viruses,”‘ explained Schneider-Johne, in a translation of the interview provided by RockPaperShotgun.
Considering Microsoft’s strong stance in favor of securing their operating system and protecting users, without official patches for the games in question, it’s unlikely they will be officially supported from Windows 10 onwards.
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“We may automatically check your version of the software and download software updates or configuration changes, including those that prevent you from accessing the Services, playing counterfeit games, or using unauthorized hardware peripheral devices”, reads Section 7b of the agreement. However this can be fiddly and annoying, especially considering these games worked in previous versions of Windows. It shows off how dumb an idea these types of DRM were in the first place and, again, it shouldn’t have an impact on too many of your favorite older games. RPS also has some suggestions on homebrew solutions if you want to go down that path. I understand there are quite a few popular PC titles these days, so you shouldn’t have much trouble finding something to distract you from the loss of…um…Grand Theft Auto 3?
