1.45M Gamers Demand Action from EU: Stop Killing Games

Over 1.45 million gamers have signed the “Stop Killing Games” petition, urging the EU Commission to protect digital ownership and stop publishers from shutting down purchased online games.

A massive movement is shaking the European gaming industry as over 1.45 million gamers have signed the “Stop Killing Games” petition, demanding that the European Commission (EC) introduce new laws to protect digital ownership rights and stop publishers from shutting down online games after purchase.

The petition calls for strong gaming consumer protection laws, urging the EU to:

• Prevent companies from removing purchased games from player libraries.

• Ensure publishers provide offline or preservation-friendly versions before shutting down servers.

• Grant gamers full ownership rights over their purchases, rather than limited licenses.

Gamers are frustrated as major publishers, including Ubisoft, EA, and Blizzard, have repeatedly shut down popular titles, leaving players unable to access:

• Purchased content

• Online progress and achievements

• Multiplayer experiences built over years

Many argue this means consumers are renting games at full price rather than truly owning them.

The European Commission has confirmed that it is reviewing the petition under the European Citizens’ Initiative (ECI) framework. If validated, the Commission may:

• Hold hearings with petition organizers.

• Debate new gaming legislation in the European Parliament.

• Draft policies ensuring video game preservation and consumer rights.

Consumer groups argue digital ownership is a “basic right” that must be protected.

Legal experts highlight that current EU law treats digital games as licenses, giving publishers power to revoke access anytime.

Industry analysts suggest reforms could push companies toward fairer, long-term models.

The US is facing similar debates over game shutdowns and preservation rights.

Japan is considering legal steps to prevent publishers from deleting purchased titles.

If successful, Europe could become the global leader in digital consumer rights for gamers.

The 1.45 million-strong “Stop Killing Games” movement is a wake-up call to both regulators and game publishers. With millions of euros invested by players in digital titles, the push for fair ownership, access, and preservation has never been stronger.

As the European Commission weighs its decision, the outcome could redefine the future of digital gaming shifting power from corporations to consumers and ensuring that when players buy a game, they own it for life.