Stop Destroying Video Games Petition Gains Wide Support in 7 EU Countries

A European Union petition demanding publishers maintain the playability of online games after server shutdowns is gaining significant traction. The initiative, aiming for one million signatures, has already surpassed its national thresholds in seven EU countries.

European Gamers Unite

Nearly 400,000 Signatures Secured

The "Stop Destroying Video Games" petition has secured the necessary number of signatures in Denmark, Finland, Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands, Poland, and Sweden, exceeding targets in some instances. This impressive showing represents 397,943 signatures – a significant 39% of the one million signature goal.

Launched in June, the petition addresses the growing concern of unplayable games following publisher support termination. It advocates for legislation requiring publishers to ensure continued game functionality, even after official server closures.

The petition explicitly states its intention "to require publishers selling or licensing videogames in the EU to maintain said videogames in a functional (playable) state. This aims to prevent publishers from remotely disabling games without providing reasonable alternatives for continued play."

The petition cites the controversial shutdown of Ubisoft's The Crew in March 2024 as a prime example. Despite a substantial player base (estimated at 12 million globally), the game became unplayable due to server infrastructure and licensing issues. This prompted outrage among players, leading to a lawsuit in California alleging violation of consumer protection laws.

While the petition still needs a considerable number of signatures to reach its goal, EU citizens of voting age have until July 31st, 2025, to add their support. While non-EU citizens cannot sign, they can help by promoting the petition within their networks.