I agree, online authentication doesn't qualify as "DRM-free".

I read that they re-encrypt the installer if you choose to keep it after downloading. Seriously, wtf- that's not DRM-free by any measure.

That's correct, but fortunately, there is an easy (but tedious) workaround for this. Copy the temporary files to a different folder before the installation finishes and, voila, a standalone installer.

It does make it avoidable. I never bought a single game that had to be activated on Steam.
Since most retail games seem to be Steam polluted for many years now and I got tired of checking if it is, I only buy here and on sites that clearly say if a game needs Steam or not.

Relax man, you can. It's just not automatic.

Yeah, I read that too, but still doesn't make them selling their stuff as "DRM-free" okay. They need to seriously re-visit this aspect of their DRM-free store.

I have no idea what that means. I'm going to disable my wireless adapter, uninstall one of my "DRM-Free" GG games and then try and reinstall it with no internet connection to see one way or another myself. Back in a few.

Practically, it works for me. No client and no internet connection is necessary. But yes, it could be a very nice case of false advertising.

Basically, when I buy something DRM-free, I expect to keep the installer, without exceptions or conditions. It pisses me off that they're including a condition with this, that's all.

Yeah, practically speaking there's a workaround, but in case the workaround doesn't work for some reason, the customer has no effing recourse because the workaround isn't officially sanctioned.

Sorry, I am a little miffed by this.

Yes, but there is HUGE difference between Steam keys and Desura keys - by activating Desura key you get access to good old installer which can be downloaded and stored, same with GOG. With Steam key you get...well...string in Steams DB.
OFC bundle love to sell keys, its easy, its not waste them space and bandwidth, no need to manage these files...but thats just LAZY way to make business, because all keys is ending somewhere, who actually provide service.
For example, if somehow Steam go crazy and cancel all Humble Bundle's keys you will still have Humble Library. And you will probably have nothing with Bundlestars or recent Groupees.
Just for info - all russian astronauts is always members of Air Force. Except space tourists, maybe.

Trust me, I've tested this workaround, and you can install GG's drm-free games offline without any problem.

I can confirm THESE GG GAMES ARE NOT DRM FREE.

I was NOT ABLE to reinstall my game, despite saving the temporary files, because it looks for an internet connection.

I have spent my penny at GG. The only thing I'm gonna do there now is use up my blue coins, of which I do have a few.
I just tested and it would NOT install.

For starters, what is the game you tried to reinstall?

Hm, I think you might not have saved the files correctly because it does work.

Europa Universalis, and yes it is advertised as a DRM free game, and yes I saved the temporary files.