Stop Killing Games

The European Commission decided not to propose legal obligations requiring video game publishers to keep games playable after they are no longer commercially available. The Stop Killing Games movement, which collected 1.3 million signatures, argued that shutting down servers renders games unplayable, but the Commission cited existing intellectual property protections and consumer laws instead of introducing new rules. The decision has sparked criticism, with the movement claiming policy fragmentation risks.

Companies frequently shut down online game servers, leaving players unable to access purchased titles. A group called Stop Killing Games is advocating for consumer protection laws to address this issue, as communities struggle to keep games alive through unofficial means.

The petition 'Stop Killing Games' failed to secure EU law despite gathering 1.3 million signatures. The article references the petition's lack of success in influencing legislative action.

Stop Killing Games is challenging the practice of game publishers shutting down games without ensuring continued playability. The initiative aims to prevent the industry from discontinuing games without safeguards for players.

California lawmakers are working on a bill to preserve access to online games, advised by game preservation group Stop Killing Games. The bill aims to maintain accessibility of online games. Lawmakers are taking steps to ensure continued access.

A bill to maintain long-term playable access to online games has passed out of the California Assembly's appropriations committee. The Protect Our Games Act would require digital game publishers to provide a full refund or an updated version of the game if they cut off support. The act would apply to games offered for sale in California on or after January 1, 2027.