Denuvo in 2025: why some games ship with the DRM — and others remove it
The deployment of Denuvo, a digital rights management (DRM) solution, continues to be prevalent in 2025. Some games launch with Denuvo, while others remove it post-release. For instance, Digimon Story: Time Stranger includes Denuvo from launch, whereas…
The deployment of Denuvo, a digital rights management (DRM) solution, continues to be prevalent in 2025. Some games launch with Denuvo, while others remove it post-release. For instance, Digimon Story: Time Stranger includes Denuvo from launch, whereas inZOI removed it during Early Access following player feedback. Similarly, Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess eliminated the protection on its release anniversary.
Denuvo, maintained by Irdeto , is an anti-tamper and DRM layer designed to protect the initial sales window by making executable modification more challenging. The goal is to slow unauthorized distribution during critical early sales periods, which can positively impact revenue. It is particularly used in cases where games are released on both console and PC platforms, as the latter can present more technical variability.
Launches with DRM: Digimon Story: Time Stranger launched with Denuvo on Steam, including in the demo version. Removed before full launch: The developer of inZOI removed Denuvo from the Early Access build following player feedback. Removed post-launch: Capcom removed Denuvo from Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess in an anniversary update.
The deployment of Denuvo, a digital rights management (DRM) solution, continues to be prevalent in 2025.
These strategies demonstrate the flexible use of DRM, with decisions often aligning with major updates or milestones.
The impact of Denuvo on performance is a subject of ongoing discussion. There are public tests indicating potential FPS drops and CPU spikes, although Irdeto asserts that, when implemented correctly, the effects are minimal. Factors like first-run online activation and offline mode limitations are also considered, particularly for devices like the Steam Deck.
For publishers, Denuvo can safeguard revenue during initial release phases. For players, concerns around performance, game preservation, and modding are significant. The DRM's presence remains a debated topic as developers weigh protection against player experience, creating a varied landscape where some games retain DRM while others remove it in response to community feedback and commercial outcomes.
Based on reporting by TechBullion.
