battlefield 2
 

I remember reading somewhere that anyone who pirates a battlefield 2 game will have their IP banned instantly if they go online.

Im kinda curious how a server is able to tell the difference between a pirated game and a regular game?

When you bought Battlefield2, you'll normally have a unique Serial-Key.
When you go online with the game and the server tells you "Serial-Key is already in use", you will contact EA to get a new key.
Then EA will ban the old key from the servers.

I don't think they really ban IPs.

They cannot ban by IP.

If you have a pirated copy...BUY THE DAMNED GAME!! IT'S AMAZING and certainly worth it.

As GLH said, so long as you have a valid CD key, you're ok.

e.g. you have a pirated copy (heaven forbid) and decided to buy it...you don't have to re-install...simply enter the new cd key into the registry using regedit or the small code applet provided with the game.