my brother has been asking for the six months for me to get him a newer version of photoshop and a version of aftereffects (pirated), and I'd like to do this for Christmas for him. Does anyone use these alot and know which of the versions after I think PS3(?) have easily worked around authentication/piracy protection? I read that they're going towards a cloud based/subscription thing now, so I don't expect to be getting anything too new, but I'd like to get him versions somewhat up to date (the past few years) if possible.

I'm not looking for torrent links or anything like that as a response, just info on what versions I should go for.

He's semi capable when it comes to running cracks, but I do have to spell out the steps for him usually, so I'd like it to be versions where that process isn't too complex.