Digital distribution is generally expensive. I can get most new release games cheaper on Amazon than Steam. The only issue with that in terms of PC games is that most games have online DRM anyway, or even Steamwirks so I'd be in the same boat anyway. I have just found out a couple of thongs while testing though with no internet connection:
Windows Live DRM: Arkham Asylum and DiRT 3 work fine (bought on disc) Virtua Tennis 5 does not (bought online)
Steam: all games locked out, includes games bought on disc like New Vegas and Just Cause 2
Games bought on Origin (when it was EA Download Manager): Work flawlessly. Doesn't even need to go through Origin software, just plays and both Sims 3 and Burnout Paradise were downloaded.
Looks like the evil Origin isn't so bad after all... Bar the prices.
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