A consumer rights campaign called Stop Killing Games is contesting the practice of video game publishers shutting down online game servers, which often renders the games unplayable. The campaign argues that players lose access to games they have already paid for when servers are switched off, raising questions about digital ownership and consumer rights.
Why this matters
Many modern video games rely on online servers to function. When publishers decide to discontinue support and shut down these servers, players can no longer access the games, even if they have purchased them. This has sparked concerns about the permanence of digital purchases and the rights of consumers to continue using products they have paid for.
Background
Stop Killing Games was started in 2024 by American YouTuber Ross Scott, also known as Accursed Farms. The campaign began after Ubisoft announced it would shut down the online-only racing game The Crew, which had attracted over 12 million players. Ubisoft cited server infrastructure and licensing constraints as reasons for the shutdown.
Players like Chemicalflood, who had played The Crew for nearly a decade, expressed disappointment not only at the shutdown but at the way it was handled, as the game became completely unplayable. For many, the game was more than entertainment; it was a shared experience with family and a meaningful part of their lives.
Key developments
- In January, Stop Killing Games submitted a petition with nearly 1.3 million signatures to the European Commission, prompting a public hearing in the European Parliament in April.
- Ubisoft defended its decision in court, stating that players purchased a license to use the game rather than ownership rights, and that warnings about the temporary nature of online services were provided. A class-action lawsuit was withdrawn in June 2025.
- The wider games industry, represented by Video Games Europe, argues that shutting down online services must remain an option when games are no longer commercially viable and warns that some campaign proposals could increase development costs.
- Stop Killing Games advocates for “responsible” shutdowns, suggesting publishers update games to work offline or release software enabling players to continue running them after server closures.
- Other recent examples include Sony discontinuing support for Destruction AllStars and shutting down the live-service shooter Concord shortly after launch, with refunds offered to customers.
Legal and political responses
In Europe, the European Commission must respond to the Stop Killing Games petition by late July. French consumer group UFC-Que Choisir has launched legal action against Ubisoft over The Crew shutdown, alleging misleading information and unfair contract terms. The case is ongoing.
In the UK, despite a parliamentary debate triggered by a petition with over 100,000 signatures, the government has stated it has no plans to change consumer law but will continue monitoring the issue.
In the United States, campaigners support California’s proposed Protect Our Games Act, which would require publishers to keep games playable after online support ends or offer refunds. The bill has passed the State Assembly and is under consideration by the State Senate.
What to watch
The debate over digital ownership and the rights of gamers to access purchased content continues to evolve. The European Commission’s response to the petition and ongoing legal cases may influence future regulations. Additionally, legislative efforts in the US and consumer advocacy in other regions could shape how the industry handles online game shutdowns going forward.
Ross Scott and the Stop Killing Games team acknowledge the campaign may take years to achieve its goals but remain committed to ensuring players retain access to games they have paid for, even after official online support ends.
Recommended reading
For more context, see related Peack News coverage and explainers linked below.
