GfW Live ramps up anti-piracy measures

Microsoft has unveiled the latest features and upgrades making their way to its Games for Windows Live platform, with a focus on increasing anti-piracy efforts.

Games for Windows will now offer "zero day piracy protection", including server side authentication on top of a further layer of authentication required for online play.

In addition, sellers on the platform's market place will now be able to design their own storefronts, while the "roaming" function will allow consumers to save their personal settings and have access to them on any other compatible Windows PC.

"This update and other features currently in development represent a tipping point in the evolution of Games for Windows Live as a leading online PC gaming network," said Ron Pessner, general manager of Games for Windows Live.

"In the coming months, we will continue to deliver on our promise to provide gamers and publishers with the industry’s best connected gaming experiences through the Live service."

Dave Luehmann, general manager of Window games for Microsoft Game Studios, added: "As a publisher, no one is more excited to see the continued growth and evolution of Games for Windows Live than Microsoft Game Studios."

"We have several projects underway which will incorporate the Live service, and we're continuing to build new developer relationships here at GDC to bring the best in the industry to Games for Windows Live."