The European Union faces a growing call from gamers and consumers to protect online games after a petition named Stop Killing Games surpassed one million signatures. This citizens’ initiative demands that video game companies preserve online games rather than shutting down servers and effectively killing playable versions. The surge in support puts pressure on the European Commission to consider new legislation safeguarding gamers’ rights and digital ownership.
What’s Happening & Why This Matters
The Stop Killing Games petition reached 1.25 million signatures across at least seven EU member states, crossing the threshold that compels the European Commission to consider the issue formally. Organizers Aleksej Vjalicin and Daniel Ondruska spearheaded the campaign, motivated by game shutdowns like Ubisoft’s closure of “The Crew,” a popular online racing game with 12 million players.
The petition argues that when companies disconnect servers, they “destroy all working copies” of the game. This practice denies consumers access to games they paid for and eliminates the possibility of restoring these games in the future. The petition states, “It represents a radical assault on consumer rights and even the concept of ownership itself.”
Signers demand that game makers develop “end-of-life” plans before discontinuing online support. This would allow players to continue enjoying games even after official support ends. The petition highlights video games as “unique creative works,” where losing access erases cultural and historical digital heritage.
While the industry group Video Games Europe acknowledges that game discontinuation decisions are complex and taken seriously, it warns that new laws could create engineering challenges and impact intellectual property rights. The group asserts that players receive fair notice about upcoming game shutdowns under existing consumer laws.
The petition now undergoes signature verification by designated authorities in all EU countries. Once validated, the Commission will hold structured discussions with organizers, followed by potential public hearings in the European Parliament. The Commission will then determine possible regulatory responses and establish a timeline.
TF Summary: What’s Next
The Stop Killing Games petition puts digital game preservation on the EU’s agenda. With over a million signatures, the Commission must consider new protections for online games and consumer rights.
The debate balances gamer demands with industry concerns over innovation and IP. If the EU drafts new laws, it could reshape how online games are maintained, ensuring digital culture is preserved for future generations.
— Text-to-Speech (TTS) provided by gspeech