Gamers Unite Against Industry Practices to Preserve Online Games
The gamers taking on the industry to stop it switching off games
The Bbc
Image: The Bbc
A consumer rights campaign called Stop Killing Games, initiated by YouTuber Ross Scott, is challenging the practice of game publishers shutting down servers for online games. The campaign has garnered nearly 1.3 million signatures and is now being discussed by the European Commission.
- 01Stop Killing Games campaign was launched in 2024 by Ross Scott in response to Ubisoft's decision to shut down The Crew.
- 02The campaign has collected nearly 1.3 million signatures and triggered a public hearing in the European Parliament.
- 03Scott argues that game publishers should implement 'end-of-life plans' to allow continued access to games after online services cease.
- 04The campaign has faced pushback from the gaming industry, which claims it could increase development costs for online games.
- 05California's proposed Protect Our Games Act aims to require publishers to keep games playable or offer refunds after online support ends.
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The Stop Killing Games campaign, founded by American YouTuber Ross Scott in 2024, aims to combat the practice of game publishers shutting down servers for online games, rendering them unplayable. The movement gained momentum after Ubisoft announced the closure of its online-only racing game, The Crew, which had over 12 million players. Scott's petition, signed by nearly 1.3 million people, has led to discussions in the European Parliament and legal actions against Ubisoft for allegedly misleading players about their rights. The campaign advocates for responsible shutdown practices, urging publishers to consider options like offline modes or software releases to preserve access. The gaming industry has responded by arguing that such proposals could raise development costs. Meanwhile, legislative efforts like California's Protect Our Games Act are underway to protect consumers' rights regarding game access. Scott remains committed to the campaign, highlighting the ongoing debate surrounding digital ownership and consumer rights in the gaming industry.
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The campaign could lead to significant changes in consumer rights regarding digital games, affecting how publishers manage online services.
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