Battlefield 3 PC boxed, DRM constraints and Origin?
Is the boxed version of Battlefield 3 free from other clients, "services", and DRM? For instance, the intrusive "always online" DRM, "3-install" limits, Origin, and so on.
Solution 1:
No. Origin is required for any PC copy (boxed and digital) of Battlefield 3.
Solution 2:
Origin is required to play at all times (you can use the offline mode though).
You must also pass a one time release date check the first time you use Battlefield 3, which requires the internet. After that you're free to play offline (but still through Origin).