The lifecycle of video games has become a contentious issue, sparking debates and initiating movements aimed at safeguarding consumer rights and the longevity of digital content.
A long frustrating issue for gamers worldwide is coming to a head with the recent shutdown of Ubisoft's "The Crew" and their decision that has rendered the game, a decade-long staple for racing enthusiasts, utterly unplayable since March 31st, 2024.
This move has not only disappointed gamers worldwide but also ignited a significant campaign led by YouTuber Ross Scott, known for his Accursed Farms channel. Dubbed "Stop Killing Games," this initiative seeks to challenge the status quo, advocating for the preservation of games against the backdrop of forced obsolescence.
The "Stop Killing Games" campaign emerges as a beacon for those who view video games as more than transient digital goods; it champions them as cultural artifacts worthy of preservation. Scott's initiative is not merely a protest but a call to action, urging individuals and communities to petition their governments to scrutinize and potentially regulate the practice of discontinuing support for games. This practice, often buried within the terms of service agreements, positions games as temporary licenses rather than permanent acquisitions, a distinction that many (including myself and most likely you as well) argue undermines consumer rights and the intrinsic value of games as media.
Ubisoft's decision to shutter "The Crew" has catalyzed a broader discussion, exemplifying the precarious nature of digital game ownership. The campaign zeroes in on the implications of such shutdowns, highlighting a growing trend where games are designed with an expiration date, leaving players in the lurch once support ceases. This raises pressing questions about the legality of rendering purchased content inaccessible and the ethical considerations of digital goods management.
The "Stop Killing Games" website serves as a rallying point, offering resources and guidance for those looking to take a stand against this issue. It features a "take action here" button, a user-friendly tool that prompts visitors to select their country and outlines potential steps to combat the forced obsolescence of video games.
The campaign particularly targets France's Directorate General For Competition, Consumer Affairs And Fraud Protection (DGCCRF), urging an investigation into the matter and hoping to set a precedent for regulatory action worldwide.
Ross Scott's efforts to mobilize the gaming community and beyond reflect a growing awareness of the need for a sustainable approach to digital content management. By spotlighting the closure of "The Crew" and advocating for change, the "Stop Killing Games" campaign not only seeks to protect the rights of gamers but also to ensure the preservation of digital gaming heritage for future generations.
As this movement hopefully gains traction, it challenges those video game industry bigwhigs to reconsider the value we place on digital content and the legacy of the digital age.
~Smash
