We’ve just received a mail from Caryl Shaw (aka MaxisLucky), online producer for Spore, on the SecuROM issue. It seems the community outcry is reaching Maxis’ ears. Below is the mail in its entirety.

Hey Spore Fans -

We wanted to let you know that we’ve been hearing your concerns about
the online authentication mentioned earlier this week.  I didn’t want to
head into the weekend without getting back to you with some information
about how Spore is planning on using this new system.

A few things we wanted you to know:

– We authenticate your game online when you install and launch it the
first time.
– We’ll re-authenticate when a player uses online features, downloads
new content or a patch for their game.
– The new system means you don’t have to play with the disc in your
computer. And if you are like me, always losing discs, this will be a
huge benefit.
– You’ll still be able to install and play on multiple computers.
– You can play offline. 

We do hope that players will play online - sharing creatures, buildings
and vehicles with other players is something that is unique to Spore and
one of the coolest features of the game. Every day, when I play the
Creature Stage, I get to see wacky and awesome new creatures from my
Buddies on the team coming over the hill at me and I can’t wait to see
what happens when our creative, passionate community starts sharing
their creations.

I’d love to write more - but I need to get back to work.  We’ve got a
game to finish. 

-caryl

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caryl d shaw (aka MaxisLucky)
online producer
spore

What do you all think of this? Come on in and discuss it on our forums.

Also: please vote on the issue in our frontpage poll!