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A European Union petition demanding publishers maintain the playability of online games after server shutdowns is gaining momentum. The "Stop Destroying Video Games" initiative has already surpassed its signature threshold in seven EU nations, inching closer to its one-million signature goal.
EU Gamers Rally Behind the Cause
39% of the Way to 1 Million Signatures
The petition has secured the necessary number of signatures in Denmark, Finland, Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands, Poland, and Sweden, with some countries exceeding their targets. This impressive show of support brings the total signature count to 397,943 – a significant 39% of the required one million signatures.
Launched in June, the petition addresses the growing concern of games becoming unplayable after official support ends. It advocates for legislation compelling publishers to ensure continued functionality of online games, even after planned closures.
As stated in the petition, the initiative aims to prevent publishers from remotely disabling games without providing reasonable alternatives to maintain gameplay. This would protect consumer rights and prevent the loss of access to purchased games.
The petition highlights the controversial shutdown of Ubisoft's The Crew, a 2014 racing game with a reported 12 million players. Ubisoft's decision to shut down servers in March 2024, citing infrastructure and licensing issues, sparked outrage among players and even led to lawsuits in California alleging violation of consumer protection laws.
While the petition still needs substantial support to reach its goal, EU citizens of voting age have until July 31st, 2025, to sign. Although non-EU citizens cannot sign, they can contribute by spreading awareness of this important initiative.
