EU Rejects 1.3 Million-Signature Stop Killing Games Push, Backs Voluntary Code
Updated
Updated · Salon · Jul 13
EU Rejects 1.3 Million-Signature Stop Killing Games Push, Backs Voluntary Code
2 articles · Updated · Salon · Jul 13
Summary
The European Union declined in mid-June to adopt the Stop Killing Games initiative, despite 1.3 million verified signatures backing rules to keep purchased games playable after publishers move on.
Instead, Brussels chose a voluntary code of conduct on game life-cycle management, favoring industry self-regulation over binding consumer-protection requirements.
The campaign grew after Ubisoft shut down 2014 racing game The Crew, which required a constant internet connection even though it was largely a single-player title.
The rejection lands as publishers push further into digital-only sales and online dependence, sharpening concerns that players can lose access to games they paid for.
Record profits, mass layoffs, and $2 billion games. Is the AAA industry collapsing under its own weight?
With digital games erasing ownership, could your expensive library simply disappear overnight?
Microsoft is gutting its Xbox division. Is this the end of the console wars as we've known them?
12 Million Gamers Locked Out: EU Denies "Stop Killing Games" Petition, Sparking Global Digital Ownership Debate
Overview
The European Commission’s rejection of the 'Stop Killing Games' initiative was sparked by Ubisoft’s shutdown of 'The Crew,' which left 12 million players unable to access a game they had purchased. After Ubisoft delisted the game and revoked licenses without refunds, consumers were outraged, highlighting the risks of digital game ownership. This backlash led to the rise of the 'Stop Killing Games' movement, demanding stronger protections so games remain playable even after official support ends. The incident exposed how current laws treat digital purchases as licenses, not ownership, fueling ongoing debates about consumer rights and digital preservation.