BioWare caused a bit of an uproar with fans when they announced how they were going to use online verification for PC copies of Mass Effect. Initially, the company planned an online authentication process that would take place every ten days. Gamers waiting for the title’s release thought that would be a tad bit excessive and voiced their dissatisfaction with BioWare’s decision. And just as we saw with Battlefield: Bad Company’s pay-for-weapons program, the ten day authenticity check is no more.

Speaking on BioWare’s forums, community manager Jay Watamaniuk wrote, “BioWare has always listened very closely to its fans and we made this decision to ensure we are delivering the best possible experience to them. To all the fans including our many friends in the armed services and internationally who expressed concerns that they would not be able re-authenticate as often as required, EA and BioWare want you to know that your feedback is important to us.”

The new way to verify and protect the game is a more reasonable one I must say — the game will still require online activation, but it will be a one shot deal after the installation is complete. The only time you’ll have to go through the process again is if you want to download extra content.

After the verification, you will also be able to play the game without having to have the disc in the tray, and one disc can be used to install Mass Effect on three different computers at the same time. But should you need more than that, EA’s customer support line will be expecting your call.

[See also: Mass Effect gallery]