A European Union petition demanding publishers maintain the playability of online games after server shutdowns is gaining significant traction. The "Stop Destroying Video Games" initiative has already surpassed its signature threshold in seven EU nations, nearing its ambitious goal.

EU Gamers Rally Behind the Cause

Significant Progress Towards 1 Million Signatures

The petition has secured 397,943 signatures—39% of its 1 million target—demonstrating widespread support from gamers across Denmark, Finland, Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands, Poland, and Sweden. Several countries have even exceeded their individual targets.

Launched in June, the petition addresses the growing concern of games becoming unplayable after official support ends. It advocates for legislation mandating publishers to ensure continued functionality, even after server closures, preventing the remote disabling of purchased games without providing reasonable alternatives for continued play.

As the petition states, "This initiative seeks to prevent publishers from remotely disabling videogames purchased by EU consumers, requiring them to provide viable methods for continued gameplay independent of publisher involvement."

The petition highlights the controversial shutdown of Ubisoft's The Crew, a 2014 racing game with over 12 million players globally. Ubisoft's March 2024 server closure, attributed to infrastructure and licensing issues, rendered the game unplayable, sparking outrage among players and even legal action in California.

While significant progress has been made, the petition still needs further support to reach its goal. EU citizens of voting age have until July 31st, 2025, to sign. Those outside the EU are encouraged to spread awareness and support the cause.