I used to think REX Axis was a reputable flight sim developer. Turns out, they operate like a digital protection racket.
After a string of hardware failures forced me to RMA and replace my laptop a couple of times, REX’s automated security locked me out of REX Atmos Core. I didn’t share my key. I didn’t pirate anything. I just had the audacity to use my legally purchased software on my new ASUS ROG Strix, which happens to be the last laptop I purchased that works great with MSFS 2024.
Their customer service didn’t ask for proof of purchase or RMA receipts. They just immediately labelled me a thief. When called out, Murray Bremner from REX admitted they are actively punishing loyal customers due to their own inability to control piracy, telling me my only option was to buy the software a second time.
This is a pathetic business model. They are hiding behind the fact that I am in the UK, the vendor (Simmarket) is in Germany, and they are in the US, assuming a single consumer won’t fight back over a cheap app. They are right about the money - the app costs less than two beers. But they are dead wrong if they think they can insult my integrity for free.
Do not give these people a single penny. The moment you replace a graphics card, a motherboard, or a laptop, they will revoke your access, call you a pirate, and demand a bribe to let you back in.
Let’s be clear: this isn’t about the £15. It is about the repulsive principle of a company demanding a double-payment because their DRM is too poorly engineered to recognize a hardware upgrade. They know international borders make small-claims court impractical for a cheap app, so they use it as leverage to shake down legitimate users. If you enjoy being insulted and extorted for upgrading your PC, buy from REX. Otherwise, steer well clear.