EU Gamers Rally Behind "Stop Destroying Video Games" Petition

A significant pushback against the practice of rendering video games unplayable after support ends is underway in the European Union. The "Stop Destroying Video Games" petition has surpassed its signature threshold in seven countries, bringing it closer to its 1 million signature goal.

Strong Support Across the EU

The petition has achieved the necessary signature count in Denmark, Finland, Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands, Poland, and Sweden, exceeding expectations in several. With 397,943 signatures collected thus far, the initiative has reached 39% of its target.

The petition directly addresses the issue of publishers remotely disabling online games after their official support ends, leaving players with unplayable purchases. The initiative aims to mandate that publishers maintain the functionality of games sold within the EU, preventing such practices. The petition specifically calls for a law preventing publishers from remotely disabling games without providing reasonable alternatives to maintain gameplay.

High-Profile Example: The Crew

A prime example highlighted in the petition is Ubisoft's The Crew, a 2014 racing game with a substantial player base. Despite its popularity, Ubisoft shut down the game's servers in March 2024, rendering player progress inaccessible. This action sparked significant outrage, even leading to lawsuits in California alleging violation of consumer protection laws.

While the petition still requires a substantial number of signatures to reach its goal, EU citizens of voting age have until July 31st, 2025, to add their support. Gamers outside the EU are encouraged to spread awareness of the campaign.