Hello, RGoto!
Version 8(by that I think you mean Power Director
does not need the Internet to activate it, All you do there is type in the CDKey number in the appropriate place when you open it first time after installation, however, to register it you'll need to log in to DZ. But later versions(PD9 onwards, I believe) do need the Internet and log-in to DZ to complete the activation process. PD8 has long ago been superceded but, as it happens I have it on my computer and retain it for certain tasks.
Just wondering:- If your PD8 does not have a CDKey number, it could be because it's an OEM version(bare-bones) which was packaged with capture card devices and promoted in the marketplace with words like
"Turn your old VHS Tapes into DVD with (brand-name) VHS to DVD Converter!" or words similar to that. These OEM versions don't need registration and activate as soon as they're opened but are little better than the trial version as many of their features do not function, that's why the full retail version with the CDKey is the better option for
ALL versions of Power Director. Carl312 or Dafydd B. may be able to advise on how to get hold of Power Director 14 from Japan(you might have to contact Cyberlink directly, that's where Carl or Dafydd may be able to help).
Cheers!
Neil.