Ghostwire: Tokyo launched in 2022 with Denuvo, which has now become the industry standard for fighting piracy. Two years later, the game has now removed the anti-tamper protection software.
The SteamDB page of Ghostwire: Tokyo was recently updated, and the absence of Denuvo from the App Info section stood out. Comparing the current webpage with the older version using Wayback Machine confirmed the same.
Most publishers remove Denuvo from games 6 to 12 months after release. Some developers hold out longer if the game sells well, which there are some that never remove the DRM software. Games that aren’t selling well anymore or are do not have enough engagement levels often get Denuvo removed from them when the decision can no longer financially harm the product or its makers.
However, Ghostwire: Tokyo’s Denuvo removal case might be slightly more interesting. Back in September 2023, a Microsoft document leak revealed that a Ghostwire Tokyo sequel was in the works. The document suggested the game would launch in 2024.
To connect the dots, it’s very much possible that the Denuvo removal might be a strategic move to get more players “interested” in the franchise. It would definitely build a bigger audience for the second game, if it happens. However, at this stage, all of this is pure speculation.
