In recent years, the landscape of digital game ownership has come under increasing scrutiny, particularly as the prevalence of digital distribution has grown. While nostalgia for physical media still lingers, the shift toward digital storefronts has prompted gamers to question the true ownership of the titles they purchase. As we move into 2024, this concern has escalated, with players becoming more vocal about the implications of losing access to games they have invested in financially.
The Disappearance of Games
Over the past decade, a troubling trend has emerged: numerous high-profile games have vanished from digital platforms. This is not merely a matter of obscure indie projects; major titles, often backed by substantial budgets and years of development, have been lost to the ether. A notable example from 2024 is Concord, a live service shooter from Sony that was unceremoniously discontinued just 11 days after its launch.
The recent Stop Killing Games campaign, initiated by YouTuber Ross Scott, gained traction following Ubisoft’s decision to shut down The Crew, a racing game that had been operational for a decade. The game is now unplayable due to “server infrastructure and licensing constraints,” prompting Scott to rally support against what he describes as an “assault on both consumer rights and preservation of media.” The campaign aims to direct consumers to various petitions and regulatory bodies, advocating for the classification of video games as “goods” rather than “services.” This distinction is crucial, as it argues that once a consumer purchases a game, it should not be rendered inoperable by the seller.
“Goods shouldn’t be able to be rendered inoperable by the seller after consumers buy them.”
While some arguments may seem exaggerated—such as a proposed class-action lawsuit claiming players were “duped” by Ubisoft—there are elements of the movement that could lead to significant changes. Currently, the Stop Killing Games petition has garnered over 400,000 signatures, aiming for a million by July 2025, which would compel the EU to consider a ban on making multiplayer games unplayable.
Regulatory Responses and Industry Reactions
This growing awareness of digital ownership issues is occurring alongside a shift in how both publishers and regulators approach the topic. Steam, for instance, has updated its disclaimers regarding ownership, a move seemingly influenced by the increasing number of games being rendered unplayable. This change follows a new Californian law requiring retailers to inform consumers that digital games can be revoked at any time, a message that Steam has now adopted universally.
Amidst these developments, GOG (formerly Good Old Games) has positioned itself as a champion of consumer rights, emphasizing that any game purchased through its platform remains the buyer’s forever. GOG has also launched a preservation program to ensure that classic titles continue to function on modern systems, regardless of publisher actions. In a unique twist, GOG now allows users to bequeath their game libraries to others, provided they can prove their demise.
Interestingly, the conversation around digital ownership is not solely a player versus publisher narrative. Many industry leaders recognize the shortcomings of current practices. Michael Douse, director of publishing at Larian Studios, voiced concerns over Ubisoft’s actions, suggesting that if players are expected to forfeit ownership, developers may face job insecurity as a result.
A Shift in Perspective
While some publishers are beginning to appreciate the value of their back catalogs—evident in strategies employed by companies like Capcom—others remain less attuned to the importance of preserving older titles. The industry is gradually recognizing the potential of collaborating with studios dedicated to remastering classic games, with Nightdive Studios leading the charge in revitalizing beloved titles.
As the conversation surrounding ownership and preservation intensifies, 2024 stands out as a pivotal year for both players and regulators. The reality is stark: players do not truly own their games on platforms like Steam, where access can be revoked at any moment. This realization, coupled with a growing dissatisfaction with the status quo, is prompting a shift in how gamers view their investments. With alternatives available, the demand for clearer ownership rights is louder than ever, signaling a potential turning point in the digital gaming landscape.
