Did Amazon Delete Spore Reviews? [Updated]
from the they're-all-gone dept
Want to know how not to respond to criticism? By deleting it. Yet, it appears that's what Amazon has done. Earlier this week we wrote about the controversy of EA's decision to put cumbersome DRM on the highly anticipated video game, Spore. The response was that thousands of people started posting one star reviews of Spore, noting the problems with the DRM. Things then got worse when people realized that EA had misled customers about the fact that they could only have one user account on Spore.Now, a bunch of people have noticed that Amazon appears to have deleted all of the reviews on the Spore page. This is only going to end badly. When you try to shut down a large group of people who feel wronged, you're not just whacking the bees' nest with a stick, you're setting it on fire with a flame thrower. The folks who were complaining are only going to complain louder, and louder. Remember what happened when Digg tried to takedown the AACS crack? Whoever was responsible for removing the comments -- whether it was Amazon or EA -- they may find that the reaction to trying to shut down the angry mob is only going to make folks that much angrier, and alert that many more people to the problems they have with EA's use of DRM.
Update: It appears that some, or potentially all, of the reviews are now back on the site, and Amazon is claiming that it was a "glitch" that they disappeared. Some people claim that their own reviews are not back yet, though, so the whole situation is a bit fluid. Either way, if it really was a glitch, it was a pretty bad time and place for such a glitch to occur.
Thank you for reading this Techdirt post. With so many things competing for everyone’s attention these days, we really appreciate you giving us your time. We work hard every day to put quality content out there for our community.
Techdirt is one of the few remaining truly independent media outlets. We do not have a giant corporation behind us, and we rely heavily on our community to support us, in an age when advertisers are increasingly uninterested in sponsoring small, independent sites — especially a site like ours that is unwilling to pull punches in its reporting and analysis.
While other websites have resorted to paywalls, registration requirements, and increasingly annoying/intrusive advertising, we have always kept Techdirt open and available to anyone. But in order to continue doing so, we need your support. We offer a variety of ways for our readers to support us, from direct donations to special subscriptions and cool merchandise — and every little bit helps. Thank you.
–The Techdirt Team
Filed Under: backlash, deletions, drm, reviews, spore, streisand effect
Companies: amazon, ea
Reader Comments
Subscribe: RSS
View by: Time | Thread
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re:
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re: Re:
But those reviews were genuine reviews. They gave factual information about serious problems with the product. If prior knowledge about those serious problem led people to conclude the product was not worth buying, Amazon's review system should accept those opinions.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re:
Some are, some aren't. Here's a random typical example: "Since this game has DRM I will not buy. It is that simple."
I am not interested in reading "reviews" by people who have not purchased the game.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re: Re:
That is a genuine review. What is a review? It's a person's opinion on a product. Does the review quoted above express an opinion on a product? It sure does. Is the opinion based on and supported by facts? Sure enough. So it's legitimate.
"I am not interested in reading "reviews" by people who have not purchased the game."
No one is saying you have to. I tend not to read glowing reviews. Like at newegg, and on amazon, I'll read what people do not like about a product. I'd decide if their opinions are based in reality or just stupid. Then I'll buy or not buy accordingly. However, I would never claim that newegg or Amazon should get rid of glowing reviews merely because I don't find them useful.
Think of this, let's assume that there was a child's crib for sale on Amazon (and elsewhere) that has caused numerous deaths to children due to a design flaw, but that the crib had not been recalled.
Do you think a person should not be allowed to point out, "Hey, this product has led to numerous deaths. It has not been recalled yet, but you might want to give it a second thought before you buy it."
Under your argument, the person be forced to buy the faulty product and have an actual kid die before they could write such a review! That makes no fricken sense.
One point of writing reviews is to inform people about flaws and problems with products. That's exactly what is happening here.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re: Re: Re:
How many things have you bought that failed to live to expectations? If these issues limit playability, and therefore prevent usage of the product, they should be disclosed. A disclosure of features and subsequent requirements would be helpful to the uneducated customer.
Of course, a much more reasonable response would be to remove or eliminate the technology.
Until then, I'm happy to see others willing to disclose limitations that the production house would rather sweep under the rug.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re: Re: Re:
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re: Re: Re: Re:
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re: Re: Re:
When you boycott or protest a product you don't do it inside the sellers shop.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re: Re: Re: Re:
Check out my example of the crib above. If that review is allowed, then these reviews should be allowed.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re: Re: Re: Re: Re:
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re:
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Geez
Case-in-point -- I followed every requirement to play Blu-Ray discs on my home theater system... compliant projector, compliant video card, compliant cabling, etc. I spent WAY more money than I should have to be able to play Blu-Ray on my home entertainment PC. But, the discs wouldn't play. I tried for HOURS to reauthorize the player, rework the cabling... NOTHING. I called for technical support... NO HELP AT ALL. I wasted countless hours trying to comply and was turned back at every waypoint. So what to do? I purchased a program to remove the stupid DRM. In just a few minutes, PRESTO, fully functioning home theater.
So "go to hell Blu-Ray (and DRM). You no help. I do it myself."
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re:
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Not good
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Other products by Electronic Arts
Platform: Windows XP / Vista, Macintosh | ESRB Rating: Everyone 10+
No customer reviews yet. Be the first.
I have removed all my information, 1-click settings, payment info etc.
Not 1 cent more !
Amazon - You are deceptive! I will NEVER buy another thing from your site, you are dead to me!
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re:
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
I have been an amazon customer for a couple years,
NO MORE !
That is just deceptive!
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
1.0 out of 5 stars DRM - Destroyed Rotten Media, September 9, 2008
Fun:1.0 out of 5 stars
Be aware! This purchase is a rental! EA needs to stop treating it's customers as criminals!
My EA & AMAZON boycott starts NOW!
Not 1 Cent!
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Back to the Streisand Effect
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Email Flame!
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Customers
Why leave your store wide open to any group that wants to "bomb" a product because of some feature or aspect they may not like, or simply happen to disagree with?
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
And now their server is spawning an error
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
There is now one 1 star review back up!!
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re: There is now one 1 star review back up!!
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
and i was hoping for a real battle.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
As a hardcore gamer I find much of what EA does reprehensible but I can't really fault Amazon from trying to keep some semblance of order in an area that adds a lot of value to their service.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re:
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re:
To say reviews based on the DRM should be allowed is exactly 100% spot on. Some people are complaining that a lot of reviews focus on the DRM rather than the gameplay. HOWEVER the DRM that was included with Spore is such an integrated part of the game you don't get one without the other. Albeit the DRM is PART of Spore and thus falls under the topic of the game review.
I personally have not bought Spore; I was going too but I have since changed my mind after finding out about the DRM. Now how can I rate a game I haven't played/installed you ask? Well I bought Bioshock and I went through so many hoops just to get the game to work. I had constant troubles with the install and the DRM (even uninstalling became a chore because of the DRM) and I will not go through it again.
I don't have to eat a rotten apple twice to convince me it is still going to be a bad experience the second time.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re: Re:
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re: Re: Re:
Fact is, the DRM inside Spore is horrendous. And fact is, many people got burned by that DRM.
Fact is, people got angry at EA, since Spore was much anticipated, and now killed by EA's moronic decision to include said horrendous DRM into the game, making a game that potentially could last for years, into a rental game, where EA can decide to just kill the game at any time. (By killing the authentication servers) EA has no obligations to you as a customer, they already have your money.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re:
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re: Re:
seems you did not read the article.
"Did Amazon Delete Spore Reviews? "
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re: Re: Re:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/help/customer/display.html?ie=UTF8&nodeId=508088
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
reviews back up?
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
some nut not all?
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
5 star: 3% (73)
4 star: 2% (50)
3 star: 0% (21)
2 star: 2% (56)
1 star: 90% (2,016)
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
2,216 reviews
Or did they just add them all back?
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Not news
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Amazon says glitch
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
The reviews are there
Now if folks would just given Palin the 1-star rating SHE deserves.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re: The reviews are there
FYI: I do not affiliate myself with either political party so this is more of a "your an Idiot" post then a "don't mock my political party" post.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Looks like reviews are back.
Here's the email I sent them before learning the reviews were back up:
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re: Looks like reviews are back.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re:
not 1 cent!
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re: Re:
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re:
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re:
What is not acceptable about removing the reviews is what happens to the rating of the game itself; it is not fair to Amazon's customers to have low-rating reviews removed because it makes the game appear better than it should. You can find the reviews about gameplay difficulty if you're trying, but the rating should not be high on this game.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
The Market does Speak
If this puts EA out of business, too bad, they made an incorrect choice.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re: The Market does Speak
Well do you have the RIGHT to speak your mind on Amazons servers . . . clearly the answer is no. Since they invite people to post "reviews" I believe they have moral responsiblity to maintain the crediblity of that system (which isnt very good anyway), but clearly no one has a
RIGHT to post anything there and Amazon can do anything it wants with what is posted there.
"If this puts EA out of business, too bad, they made an incorrect choice."
This could never even come close to putting EA out of business, if SPORE had never sold a single copy it would not have put EA out of business. Look at Madden 08, the fastest selling video game of all time (like 40 million in a couple of weeks), remember EA also makes that "idiot bait" (its just a liscense to print money basically) stuff too. Anyone who would make the argument that Amazon had to do this to save EA from going out of business, either knows nothing about gaming or business, or they are simply a liar.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re:
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
::shrug::
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Call them.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Amazon should not censor their customer reviews.
Having said that, I think that rating a game as one star because you don't like the DRM policy of the publisher is extremely misleading. This is why the average person thinks us gamers are eccentric loners with quirky values.
Deciding to never use Amazon is in the same category. I frankly am skeptical of the posters who claim they are never going to use it again. A few day from now they will get over their little tantrums and realize that Amazon will never know or care why they don't use the service. It's like canceling your phone because you don't like ATT's customer service policy. You get an initial rush of moral superiority, but not much else.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re:
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Customers
I have no problem with CUSTOMERS leaving product reviews, if said customer actually owns the product.
But allowing thousands of non-owners to spam the review system with their opinions, likes, dislikes, wants, and childish desires is another thing entirely.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Hm?
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re: Urza
Hint: Google it *before* you try to find it on their site.
Spoiler: It isn't listed on their site. Google is the only way to find it.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re: Re: Urza
800-201-7575 (Toll free, US and Canada)
877-586-3230 (Canada only)
877-251-0696 (Seller Support)
866-348-2492 (Rebate Status)
206-266-2992 (International)
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re: Re: Re: Urza
http://www.whatyououghttoknow.com/show/2008/07/15/secret-800-numbers/
^_^
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
That's okay.
Background processes, rootkits, whatever. As long as my gameplay and my computer aren't affected noticeably (which they aren't), who cares?
If you say it's about the principal, grow up. The world isn't fair. Might as well deal with it.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re: That's okay.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re: Re: That's okay.
RentWare
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re: Re: That's okay.
What's the problem?
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re: Re: Re: That's okay.
Games from 10 years ago had no such restrictions. Why are we DIGRESSING in the 21st century?
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re: Re: Re: Re: That's okay.
I think I'm good.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re: Re: Re: Re: That's okay.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Spelling Nazis:
I meant principle.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Amazon are outright liars.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/help/customer/display.html?ie=UTF8&nodeId=508088
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Even a site as democratic as Wikipedia still locks pages when people are abusing them. What's wrong with Amazon doing the same thing?
When thousands of people are abusing the system by "reviewing" a product they've never used, using Amazon's review system as their own personal blog to rant about things they don't like, it's only natural that Amazon would undo the damage.
Everyone complaining about this "draconian" DRM reminds me of all the fundamentalists who boycotted the movie "Dogma." They made a lot of noise and got lots of attention, but didn't hurt sales of the movie at all. If anything, they just gave it free publicity.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
so I guess it comes down to how much you want to play, I have to say that this should still hurt the companies as I used to buy games pretty soon after they were released. DVD version of Quake4 for 60 bucks, but with that I can install today for the um-teenth time with no problem. Adding DRM is making the software = rentware. plain and simple and I will not pay more than 20 bucks for it.
EA sucks, I'll buy my games elsewhere.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
EA and Amazon have lost future custom from me and many others I know.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Actually, you're wrong
Additionally, Amazon reviewers have no problem knocking products similar to what they own. They've got swanky DVD player A and they're reviewing @ss-tastic DVD player B. Happens all the time and no one gets deleted.
Those reviews have value and although I think perhaps there is such a thing as too much of a good thing, if I were considering buying Spore, I sure as hell wouldn't now.
This deluge of people willing to take time (even if it's just a few minutes) out of their day to go run down a game they've never played says something is seriously amiss. As the cliche goes, where's there's smoke, there's fire.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Disasporsia
"As you can tell from your records I have been a previous EA purchaser. While I do not like sports games or First person shooters, this does not make me a frequent purchaser.
I had been looking forward to the Spore product's release and I had actually reserved a copy at a local gaming chain that does not normally carry PC titles any more. When I found out about the Secure ROM software I called and canceled losing the 10.00$ deposit I had made. As long as you have secure ROM or other DRM software in a product, I will never purchase it. If this makes me an unwanted consumer I will be glad to send the purchased discs of the Sims expansion pack, in it's original packaging, back to any address you provide me with.
I am not going to download the DRM free version as I am not a thief. Nor will I let you treat me as one before I can make a purchase."
Their answer:
Hi,
Thank you for contacting Electronic Arts.
Thank you for you recent E-mail. Actually the nature of the problem could not be identified with your previous mail. Kindly give us a brief description of your issue so that we could assist you further.
We request you to please reply back to this email specifying your issue in detail so we may provide you the best assistance in this regard. Once we have this information, we will be able to provide you the best contact information
I look forward to your reply.
Sincerely,
EARep Paddy
Player Relations
Electronic Arts
Any one wanna copy of the sims with expansion packs? Cheap.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re: Disasporsia
OH, I see. Formletter wizards are amazing! Maybe the Lucky Leprechaun Paddy is making Missi Roti in his pot o' gold.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
When EA removes DRM from games , I will again be willing to pay high price for good games.
just bought GTA 3, Vice City and San Andreas for $30 bucks, if I get a year out of them, it will be worth it. Just be patient and don't pay the high prices for their RENTWARE!
DRM = Rentware
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
This glossing over of negative opinions has been happening on various other sites too. EA has gone to a great deal of effort with this one. There are probably some well paid marketing departments breathing down necks and writing up copy to blame pirates or some phantoms for it all once again.
Very distasteful and dishonest behaviour by these companies, I feel.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/help/customer/display.html?ie=UTF8&nodeId=508088
It states that they can do whatever they want with reviews.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
this sums it up well in a short read: http://news.bigdownload.com/photos/10-reasons-to-avoid-spore/1033846/
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
RE:Re: Disasporsia
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re: RE:Re: Disasporsia
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
More importantly: Why are so many idiots out there desperate to bend over for the company and beg to be screwed again? Some people have no dignity or sense.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
http://www.amazon.com/gp/help/customer/display.html?ie=UTF8&nodeId=508088
I am going to assume that this has always been their policy. They have the right but not the obligation to do whatever they want with your reviews.
REVIEWS, COMMENTS, COMMUNICATIONS, AND OTHER CONTENT
Visitors may post reviews, comments, photos, and other content; send e-cards and other communications; and submit suggestions, ideas, comments, questions, or other information, so long as the content is not illegal, obscene, threatening, defamatory, invasive of privacy, infringing of intellectual property rights, or otherwise injurious to third parties or objectionable and does not consist of or contain software viruses, political campaigning, commercial solicitation, chain letters, mass mailings, or any form of "spam." You may not use a false e-mail address, impersonate any person or entity, or otherwise mislead as to the origin of a card or other content. Amazon reserves the right (but not the obligation) to remove or edit such content, but does not regularly review posted content.
If you do post content or submit material, and unless we indicate otherwise, you grant Amazon a nonexclusive, royalty-free, perpetual, irrevocable, and fully sublicensable right to use, reproduce, modify, adapt, publish, translate, create derivative works from, distribute, and display such content throughout the world in any media. You grant Amazon and sublicensees the right to use the name that you submit in connection with such content, if they choose. You represent and warrant that you own or otherwise control all of the rights to the content that you post; that the content is accurate; that use of the content you supply does not violate this policy and will not cause injury to any person or entity; and that you will indemnify Amazon for all claims resulting from content you supply. Amazon has the right but not the obligation to monitor and edit or remove any activity or content. Amazon takes no responsibility and assumes no liability for any content posted by you or any third party.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
I bought and played the game and it is a bad game. I wish I had seen these reviews first. I know I will be adding another bad review for this game wherever I go.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Reviews
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Will Wright deserves every bit of success he's achieved. It just irks the hell out of me that EA is the other beneficiary.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
I like NewEgg.com and Shopping.com
In case you missed it, the Purveyors Of Truth at Amazon want you to still buy crap from them, but subtitley have suggested you visit this page:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/help/customer/display.html?ie=UTF8&nodeId=508088
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re: I like NewEgg.com and Shopping.com
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re: Re: I like NewEgg.com and Shopping.com
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re: Re: Re: I like NewEgg.com and Shopping.com
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re: Re: Re: Re: I like NewEgg.com and Shopping.com
Hugs and Kisses! XOXOXOX
Ta-ta!
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: I like NewEgg.com and Shopping.com
Thanks for the reply and remember have a great day.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re: Re: Re: Re: I like NewEgg.com and Shopping.com
Yes. Why doesn't it get investigated by the FTC?
If you want the right to bitch then you have to accept the responsibilities that go with it.
I see it the other way around. Apparently people don't want it. 2,000 negative reviews? Come on. Yet this concept of "rentals" continues to get shoved down our throat. This isn't a hourly-rate motel, we want ownership and the relationship that comes with ownership. Maybe your in the minority.
Educating yourself so that when you bitch you are speaking in a way that is correct and that lines up with facts not just an emotional outburst. I read the articles on this site daily and even though I don't agree with some of the things Mike and the others say I at least have enough respect for them to research the issue before I start my rants.
Be sure to click on the ads so they support the site. I think your misguided if you believe that most people don't perform due diligence and their own research. If I had to guess, there may be 1000 clicks for every comment received. Usually people don't share their perspective.
Although this long list of comments is exactly why Mike and others have such an open system for comments; they want as many hits on an article as possible and the more people reading the better.
Is it? That seems like a tall assumption.
I know these guys (and I mean that in a gender neutral way) believe in what they are writing about and unlike most of these comments it is obvious that they research before they rant.
Interesting perspective. So do the comments take precedence to the article?
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: I like NewEgg.com and Shopping.com
> "Yes. Why doesn't it get investigated by the FTC?"
FTC? Did you read any of the other comments on this article. If you did then you would realize that I was remarking directly on a couple of the posts. Some one used an example of "if a crib caused multiple deaths and someone wanted to make sure people knew about it then they should post a comment on Amazon" and that "this was the same thing as the people post bad reviews on Amazon over DRM". Amazon was also called a liar in another post so I simple pointed then the Amazons policies.
> "I see it the other way around. Apparently people don't want it. 2,000 negative reviews (that is a protest not a group of reviews)? Come on. Yet this concept of "rentals" continues to get shoved down our throat (shoved - no one is making you buy or rent anything). This isn't a hourly-rate motel, we want ownership and the relationship that comes with ownership. Maybe your in the minority.
When I said "if you want to bitch" I was talking about people who come onto news websites like this one and start posting ignorant comments without first doing research to determine if what they are saying is even valid. Not sure where you are getting rentals from this. Also what hotel do you know of that would tell you that as long as you stay in the room you only have to pay the one day and you can stay as long as you like. The rental argument doesn't hold any water because it is trying to twist two things into objects that can be compared when they are not.
> "Be sure to click on the ads so they support the site. I think your misguided if you believe that most people don't perform due diligence and their own research. If I had to guess, there may be 1000 clicks for every comment received. Usually people don't share their perspective."
What does clicking on ad have to do with getting your information straight before you start ranting. It is obvious that very few, if any, of the people that posted negative comments, on this article, actually check to see if Amazon has the rights to remove reviews. And I am talking about people who rant not those who keeps their perspectives to themselves. If you want to open your mouth then you should first make sure you have something intelligent to say.
> "Is it? That seems like a tall assumption"
I believe every journalist will tell you that the point to writing an article is to get as many readers as possible. Plus if that site has advertising then the more readers the more chances for revenue. That is simple economics. Also if Techdirt wanted to keep the comments at a minimum or control the comments that are made then they would implement many of the technologies that are in existence for that very reason. An open comment system is always subject to abuse and I am sure Techdirt knows that.
> "Interesting perspective. So do the comments take precedence to the article?"
You last question is interesting because my statement was that the journalists on this site research the articles they are going to write and the general public thinks they, in the comments, can just spew forth any old thing they want and assume is carries as much weight as the article.
It is obvious that you did not take my advise and research before you ranted considering most of your questions were already answered if you had just taken the time to scroll up. Lastly, consider how off base and sometimes confusing your interpretation of my words were you might want to refrain from posting anymore - you obviously don't have the cognitive abilities necessary for these types of conversations.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: I like NewEgg.com and Shopping.com
I am pretty sure TD doesn't consider itself a news site, nor adheres to journalistic standards. I don't understand why you believe this point is valid. Your perception may be severely skewed.
Not sure where you are getting rentals from this. Also what hotel do you know of that would tell you that as long as you stay in the room you only have to pay the one day and you can stay as long as you like. The rental argument doesn't hold any water because it is trying to twist two things into objects that can be compared when they are not.
DRM is a method to manage your rights. In many cases it limits rights without adding value to the users.
The utility of this computer game has changed dramatically. In comparison, this game can be considered quite limited in comparison to other games. These affect playability and under certain conditions, this can be severely limited, quite substantial, and unavoidable. But the main problem is that it's not disclosed, and goes against the fundamentals of many other major games on the market.
Instead of obfuscation of this "limited playability" feature set, (which could be seen as a modification of what could be considered generally accepted terms and conditions as perceived by a reasonably educated consumer, it should be disclosed, possibly in every advert.
A reasonable consumer may also expect this to be disclosed to users by the production house, not by 2,000 reviews. But alas, since the production house omits this, people are taking it upon themselves to educate the masses.
I don't see what's wrong with Amazon Customers sharing what may have been glared over as a marginal item. This "DRM feature set" apparently matters to a good deal of customers, but was passed up by someone.
What does clicking on ad have to do with getting your information straight before you start ranting. It is obvious that very few, if any, of the people that posted negative comments, on this article, actually check to see if Amazon has the rights to remove reviews. And I am talking about people who rant not those who keeps their perspectives to themselves. If you want to open your mouth then you should first make sure you have something intelligent to say.
Who is ranting?
I believe every journalist will tell you that the point to writing an article is to get as many readers as possible.
Again, this is a blog and an open conversation. Not a journalistic website that adheres to hierarchical standards. Have you visited other blogs? Some have similar comment technology in place. Secondly, I am lost at why you fighting an uphill battle against engagement of readers.
An open comment system is always subject to abuse and I am sure Techdirt knows that.
They are just as susceptible as comment systems on other sites such as CNN, Fox News, Youtube, Et cetera.
...The general public thinks they, in the comments, can just spew forth any old thing they want and assume is carries as much weight as the article.
If there are people are that susceptible to what others say, then those people should limit their web viewing to sites such as AP or Reuters which report without engagement technology.
It is obvious that you did not take my advise and research before you ranted considering most of your questions were already answered if you had just taken the time to scroll up.
I am not ranting and am at a loss that you think so. I am, however interested that you've decided to continue to make your point. This assists to further my understanding to realize how Netzine views of utility are separated from those like your own.
Lastly, consider how off base and sometimes confusing your interpretation of my words were you might want to refrain from posting anymore - you obviously don't have the cognitive abilities necessary for these types of conversations.
Protip: When you post as Anonymous, comments are more susceptible to additional scrutiny because we can only judge the message and assume an attempt to understand it's underlying intent. Thanks for your detailed analysis on my cognitive abilities too.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: I like NewEgg.com and Shopping.com
In regards to whether or not a blog is held under the same scrutiny as a news site you need look no further than to the numbers of court cases that have given the same journalistic rights (not all but some) to bloggers. Also if you actually read any of the articles on this site you would realize that Mike and the others do their research before opening their mouths and to hear you say that what they do is not news, or at least, of journalist quality is an insult to Mike and the others. Lastly if you want to understand my intent I will spell it out. Companies have the right to do whatever they want with their products and their Web storefronts and consumers have the right to not buy anything. But consumers don't have the right to use Amazon as their online protest site. Also, if you look at the comments you will find one that speaks about the rights of Brink and Mortar storefronts and Web storefronts (that was one of my rants). No one seemed to interested in debating that one.
I will say this about you. You are awfully susceptible to debating a worthless point with an anonymous poster. You have gotten sucked into one of the things that make the Internet great. On sites like this you can say anything you want and remain anonymous and people like you will, for some reason, feel it necessary, to debate that anonymous opinion for more cycles than is really necessary.
I save putting my name on things that are worth putting my name on and that is not stupid crap like DRM. You really should learn who to pick your fights with because I am simply baiting you and reeling you in with every one of these post.
Thank you for replying and remember have a great day.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: I like NewEgg.com and Shopping.com
Oh Geez. I thought you were someone else. Ladies and Gentlemen, I have been trolled by Mike Long. Please MIKE, take the stage.
Oh your such a joker. I will get you on the next INSIGHT COMMUNITY Case. Trust me!
If your company has a need for insight, please contact TechDirt at
http://www.techdirt.com/insightcommunity.php
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re: Re: I like NewEgg.com and Shopping.com
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Hasn't Amazon done this before?
It's not like it's the first time it's happened. I personally don't shop at Amazon because of their change in their privacy policy many years ago that allowed them to sell your information to 3rd parties. I'm sure they've changed that practice, but the fact that they were willing to do it in the first place leaves me wary of them.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Didn't purchase; SO WHAT!!!
Moderators are worthless, the internet has a high signal to noise ratio, I accept that, I don't need some more-than-likely bias "moderator" removing posts, regardless of its content.
Frankly the most offensive and ignorant post is quite common; "It works for me".
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
7,000 seeders.
20,000 leechers (it was over 35,000 at times yesterday)
DRM-what?
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
7,000 seeders.
20,000 leechers (it was over 35,000 at times yesterday)
DRM-what?
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
7,000 seeders.
20,000 leechers (it was over 35,000 at times yesterday)
DRM-what?
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
7,000 seeders.
20,000 leechers (it was over 35,000 at times yesterday)
DRM-what?
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
7,000 seeders.
20,000 leechers (it was over 35,000 at times yesterday)
DRM-what?
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
7,000 seeders.
20,000 leechers (it was over 35,000 at times yesterday)
DRM-what?
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
7,000 seeders.
20,000 leechers (it was over 35,000 at times yesterday)
DRM-what?
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
7,000 seeders.
20,000 leechers (it was over 35,000 at times yesterday)
DRM-what?
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
People are pissed, get over it.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
What EA forgot to mention?
Luckily the reviewers are filling in that detail for others to make an informed choice about what they buy from Amazon.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
EA is the cause of their problems
"SecuROM is a CD/DVD copy protection product, most often used for computer games running under Microsoft Windows, developed by Sony DADC."
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SecuROM
Remember the Sony Rootkit ordeal ?
2) Older EA games will no longer be usable
"Are you a big sports gamer? You like playing those games online? Well, you best be getting in your time with your loved ones now. Electronic Arts has informed us that they're going to begin shutting down online servers for a large number of their popular games in September and November."
http://www.1up.com/do/newsStory?cId=3161699
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Don't feed the troll
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
So does this make spore a bad game?
I read up on IGN and Gamespot and they are giving the game play decent reviews. I was even recommended by a friend that the game was awesome.
Since DRM is never a problem for me, can anyone give some positive feedback on the game play experience they had?
So far I have got nothing but good opinions.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re: So does this make spore a bad game?
Its a fun game and has a very large scope. However when you go from the macro scope of the game, down to the micro of the actual gameplay, it feels a little more stale. Frankly you wont do anything in SPORE you have not already done in other games (never all in one game granted). The opportunity to do it all with content you create is fun and different, but this extra element wears off faster then it should. Truthfully SPORE feels like a game with enormous scope that had alot of stuff removed for later sale as added content. Its feels standard EA really (like the experience has been very much hampered by its publishers "bigger picture" considerations).
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Sure we can play our Shooters and our Strat games, but only Spore gives us so many opertunities of gameplay! Infinite replay value, I don't think Spore will ever get dusty on any shelf!
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re:
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re:
Yes, it will.. after you are forced to reinstall it the fourth time because windows, or the game's own updates, has corrupted the hell out of itself.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
No more Amazon
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
No, thats an opinion, not a review. A review is based on experience (an opinion doesnt have to be based on anything). If the person never actually played the game, they CAN NOT offer a review of it (however, they certainly can express all the opinion they want).
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Re:
When will we start debating what the meaning of "is" is?
Go away troll.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
Tigerdirect.com
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
buh bye Amazon!
Thank God that I didn't buy the kindles I was planning to get for Christmas. Yet another reason not to use proprietary technologies, I guess.
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
The truth is that SPORE sucks
[ link to this | view in chronology ]
gre
[ link to this | view in chronology ]