The first generation of computer games initially used vector displays instead of video. It was the Odyssey that came out as moderately successful that is considered the first home video game console. The one that managed to popularize the video game however, was Pong – Atari’s arcade game.

Succeeding generations of the game consoles used cartridges, supported high-resolution full color tiled backgrounds plus high-resolution sprites. Games soon used CDs as they were able to contain much more information than cartridge. They become better at rendering polygons and displaying more onscreen colors. More improvements came with the introduction of PC-like architecture and a shift to DVDs and newer high-definition discs.

Digital Rights Management or DRM is primarily meant to prevent copying of e-books although it is quite possible that it will result to complete denial of access in purchase. The transaction that occurs in DRM is more similar to a rental or lease rather than a purchase since an e-book under a DRM scheme would come with a number of restrictions whereby the different parties involved can remove access to the purchase.

It is usual that e-books under some format of DRM are tied to specific computers or devices. In these cases, the purchaser is able to move the book a limited number of times. After which, he/she will not be able to move it on additional devices. Some DRM forms depend on the existence of online services. Purchasers will be unable to access the e-book if the company providing such service goes out of business.