The Sims was very succesful because of all these expansion packs and so on for which you have to pay as well. I have nothing against new content directly from the developers/producers which I have to pay for as long as people can their make content, too (like for the Sims).

I personally have nothing against internet activation for original software. Though, if they allow only 3 registration via internet and after that only via telephone support, PLUS only barebone content, they should sell it for less money. Like 25 Euro instead of 50.