A European petition aims to end “the harm of video games”

The Issue of Game Preservation

Nearly 220,000 European citizens have voiced their concerns through the “Stop Destroying Videogames” petition, triggered by Ubisoft’s decision to shut down the servers for The Crew, rendering the game unplayable for those who purchased it in any format.

Ownership vs. License

The controversy highlights the distinction between owning a game versus holding a license to use it, as explained by legal experts. When buying a game, players are typically acquiring a license rather than full ownership, allowing publishers to revoke access at their discretion.

The Trend of Online Game Shutdowns

The cessation of The Crew’s servers is not an isolated incident, as other multiplayer online games like Star Wars Galaxies and Marvel Heroes have faced similar fates. This trend raises questions about the longevity and preservation of digital gaming experiences.