Yesterday’s mandatory Xbox 360 dashboard update was billed as re-enabling the Boot to Disc option for the console, but reports on popular modding forums indicate Microsoft included something a little extra in its battle against software pirates.
The update has blocked the use of flashed firmware disc drive modifications – pirates flash their console’s disc drive in order to bypass Microsoft’s game security checks.
Hundreds of posts on modding forums indicate that copied games including Call of Duty: Black Ops and Halo: Reach no longer load. Gamers found attempting to bypass security could find themselves struck down by the mighty Microsoft ban hammer.
Via WinRumours
With Sony recently coming under heavy criticism for its breached PS3 system protection – leading to some pretty damaging hacks in Modern Warfare 2 – Microsoft appears to be attempting to ensure it doesn’t face a similar backlash from its user-base.
We’re sure the pirates will find a workaround, but for the time being it’s a win for Microsoft.
