Stop Destroying Video Games Petition Gains Wide Support in 7 EU Countries

EU Gamers Rally Behind Petition to Preserve Online Games

A European Union petition demanding publishers maintain the playability of online games after server shutdowns has gained significant traction, exceeding its signature threshold in seven member states. Let's delve into the details of this important initiative.

Strong Support Across the EU

The "Stop Destroying Video Games" petition has already secured 397,943 signatures—39% of its 1 million target—across Denmark, Finland, Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands, Poland, and Sweden. Some countries have even surpassed their individual signature goals.

This initiative addresses the growing concern of games becoming unplayable following the termination of publisher support. The petition advocates for legislation requiring publishers to ensure continued game functionality, even after servers are closed. Specifically, it aims to prevent publishers from remotely disabling games without providing reasonable alternatives for continued gameplay.

As the petition states, publishers should be obligated to maintain the functional (playable) state of games sold or licensed within the EU.

The petition highlights the controversy surrounding Ubisoft's shutdown of The Crew in March 2024, leaving millions of players unable to access their purchased game. This incident, and similar cases, underscore the need for consumer protection in the gaming industry.

While the petition still needs further support to reach its goal, EU citizens of voting age have until July 31st, 2025, to sign. While non-EU citizens can't sign, they can help by promoting the petition within their networks.