The game will have disc-based copy protection - there is a Serial Code just like The Sims 2. To play the game there will not be any online authentication needed.

We feel like this is a good, time-proven solution that makes it easy for you to play the game without DRM methods that feel overly invasive or leave you concerned about authorization server access in the distant future.

DRM proved a thorny issue for EA when Spore's SecuROM online activation technology initially only allowed owners to install the game three times before having to contact EA. Reactions ranged from comical protest creatures in Spore to class-action lawsuits.