Gamers Unite: Petition Against Video Game Stigmatization Takes Europe by Storm

A significant pushback against the practice of rendering video games unplayable after support ends is underway in the EU. The "Stop Destroying Video Games" petition has already surpassed its signature threshold in seven member states, bringing it closer to its ambitious goal of one million signatures.

EU Gamers Unite Against Abandonware

39% of the Way to 1 Million Signatures

The petition, launched in June, has garnered considerable support from gamers across Denmark, Finland, Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands, Poland, and Sweden. The current total of 397,943 signatures represents a substantial 39% of the one million needed to trigger official action.

This initiative directly addresses the growing concern of games becoming unplayable after publishers cease support. The petition advocates for legislation requiring publishers to maintain the functionality of games sold within the EU, preventing the remote disabling of games without providing reasonable alternatives for continued gameplay.

As stated in the petition: "This initiative calls for publishers selling or licensing videogames (or related assets) in the EU to maintain said videogames in a playable state. Specifically, it aims to prevent publishers from remotely disabling videogames without offering viable means to maintain functionality independently."

The petition highlights the controversy surrounding Ubisoft's decision to shut down servers for The Crew in March 2024, leaving millions of players with unplayable games. This action, among others, fueled the outrage that led to the creation of this petition and even legal action in California.

While significant progress has been made, the petition still requires substantial additional support to reach its one million signature target. Eligible EU citizens have until July 31st, 2025, to sign. Those outside the EU can still contribute by spreading awareness of this important campaign.