Skuzzy,
You're correct about copy protection methods. In my previous job working for a software firm that made nav software for boaters....we ran into all sorts of issues we hadnt foreseen.
In the case of several customers, we had a simple first-time install reg code. They called our toll free number, or emailed us the numbers/letters that was being prompted and we'd provide the code to "unlock" the program. The users had 30 days, from install, to obtain this info.
However, we had several users who had a variety of Windows OS crashes that, upon reinstall, the software wouldnt see the fragged reg entry. Or, since these folks were worldwide sailing, they simply weren't in phone range or email contact.
So in short, what we thought sounded reasonable turned out to be quite unrealistic in light of the environment our customers were in. Not every customer was a Navy cruiser with instant satellite telephone abilities.
Back to Starforce...
Like most flight sim folks, I check the reviews before diving head first into a new game. Many of the reviews I read on Lock-On clearly warned about Starforce. Some linked to web forums where the Starforce software was conflicting with I/O issues/drivers for things such as DVD/CD writers. Who wants to chance trashing their system setup for that?
