In 2009, Microsoft launched Games on Demand, its digital distribution service for video games. The majority of titles on the service use a SecuROM DRM that lets the user activate the game up to five times each month on any hardware. Microsoft claims that new titles will be added every week and there will be over 100 games by the end of 2010. You need to install a client that is your only access to your games and the marketplace. (Source: Wikipedia.com)
Find this shop at: http://www.gamesforwindows.comBackground Info
In 2007, Microsoft released the Games for Windows – Live digital distribution system as a web based service for Games for Windows computer titles. The service features distribution, DRM, social networking, and cross platform capabilities with the Xbox 360, with the service’s first game, Shadowrun, allowing gamers on Games for Windows- Live to compete with gamers on Xbox Live. The service shares many similar attributes to Xbox Live, such as online play, achievements, and various communication capabilities.To purchase and download games from Games for Windows- Live, a free client must first be installed on the computer. This client streamlines game downloads, while also providing social networking and communication capabilities to players using several options, including voice and text chat. It also acts has a digital rights management system, allowing it to protect titles from piracy. Games for Windows- Live also features Games on Demand, which allows content to be distributed digitally after users buy online. To purchase digital downloads, users must first have a Games for Windows- Live account, which can be accomplished within the top right corner of the website. Users may then search for titles by browsing some of the best selling games on the home screen or by narrowing their search with various genre categories by clicking Game Catalogue at the top. Titles are listed on the screen as thumbnails, with the price and title listed below the cover art. After selecting a thumbnail, a product description page appears. This page features screenshots, trailers, developer information, system requirements, a description of the title, and a link to add the game to the user’s cart. After completing the purchase, titles are downloaded through the client.Problems have been reported by users of the Games for Windows- Live system, including system and game instability if other digital distribution software clients are installed on the computer. Others have also reported system crashes even though their computer exceed the system requirements, and others have reported problems with the DRM that renders the games useless.
