http://kotaku.com/5114573/ea-steam-hook-up-make-sweet-digital-distribution
I have to admit that when STEAM first came out I was concerned about it needing an internet connection to activate games, however compaired to things like secure rom that totally screw with your system it is really easy. I also like the fact you now get EXTRAs like voice chat in game as part of the service, patching is also super easy.
Too bad they didn;t do this when spore launched.
No kidding!
This is good news though, it means the industry is figuring out that the "DRM cure" for piracy is pissing off the people with the money ultimately costing them more.