Party Mode, as I understand it, is only meant to protect the DB.
Currently, Party Mode any changes you make to Library don't stick thank heavens, but RemyJ is right, configuration changes are still going into the registry and so stick.
The current party mode is OK but there should be more, I think.
For V9 I suggest that there be two types of database protected states.
One as it is now (or was intended to be) wherein you can browse, search, play, create temporary playlists etc, but with database and registry protected.
The other would be a true "Party Mode".
In this mode everything would be disabled except:
1) Browsing and searching the library
2) Adding individual songs to "Playing Now" - provided that they are not already in "Playing Now"
3) Ten seconds of inactivity triggers full screen visualisations.
4) MJ is mega-ised and always on top.
Like a smart jukebox.
One that prevents your drunken, fun-loving, wacked out friends from messing with your music database, your PC generally and hence your equilibrium, thereby allowing you to step out on the verandah for a nonchalant toke.