setting up cyber cafe - having an argument with a staff member who says cracks are legal - ie purchasing a copy per PC and then cracking it to remove the need to use the CD again

I am 90% positive that this is illegal but someone here would know for sure

It is my understanding that if you are using your purchased game on your computer then the application of a "No CD Crack/Patch" would not be illegal.
The purpose being just to avoid the bother & or "wear & tear" on the CD & or CD drive.

The EULA of the software should state specifically your options.

That being said, if indeed you have a legitimate copy for each & every computer, you may well be within your rights.
However using any software in a commercial "for profit" venue raises completely different & more complex issues.

There is alot of software specifically designed for Cyber Cafes:
http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&l...ber+cafe+setup