Also it doesnt have to be for PIRACY reasons.
Reasons for running off USB (wii) -
- shorter load times (most notable in games like House of the Dead where stutter is prevalent)
- no need to juggle discs, all in one spot (think XBLA)
- no strain on laser, longer shelf life
- easy to archive/back up
- can rip directly from disc, saving your disc life
You can still play online with it, you can even use cheats with it.