Consumer Rights Campaign Against Game Server Shutdowns Gains Momentum

The Stop Killing Games campaign, initiated by YouTuber Ross Scott in 2024, aims to prevent game publishers from shutting down servers for online games, rendering them unplayable. The campaign gained traction after Ubisoft announced the shutdown of its online-only racing game, The Crew, in 2024, which affected over 12 million players. In January 2026, the campaign submitted a petition with nearly 1.3 million signatures to the European Commission, leading to a public hearing in April. Ubisoft defended its actions in court, arguing that players only purchased licenses, not ownership rights. The lawsuit filed by players was dismissed in June 2025. The campaign advocates for responsible shutdown practices, such as providing end-of-life plans for games. The European Commission is expected to respond to the petition by July 27, 2026.

Key Points: • The Stop Killing Games campaign has gathered 1.3 million signatures against game shutdowns. • Ubisoft's decision to shut down The Crew sparked significant backlash from players and advocates. • The European Commission is set to respond to the campaign's petition by July 27, 2026.