Ubisoft Defends Game Preservation Amidst 'Stop Killing Games' Movement

Why this matters: The conflict highlights the growing tension between publishers' business models and consumers' desire to preserve their purchased games. The outcome could significantly impact digital ownership rights and game preservation practices.

The 'Stop Killing Games' movement emerged in response to publishers removing access to purchased games, particularly those with always-online requirements. Ubisoft's decision to shut down The Crew's servers and revoke licenses fueled the movement. The core issue is that many games become unplayable when publishers discontinue server support, effectively nullifying the purchase. The movement calls for publishers to release patches or modifications that allow games to be played offline after the official support ends.

Ubisoft's response, led by CEO Yves Guillemot, defends the company's position by highlighting the costs and challenges of maintaining older games indefinitely. He mentioned the 'online connection required' notice on game boxes and the company's right to 'cancel access to one or more specific online features upon a 30-day prior notice'.

The debate also touches upon legal and ethical considerations. Consumers argue that they should retain access to products they have purchased, while publishers emphasize the service-based nature of modern games. The EU is currently reviewing the matter, and any changes to consumer law could have significant implications for the gaming industry.

While Ubisoft is planning an offline mode for The Crew 2, this is seen as a limited solution. The 'Stop Killing Games' movement aims for a more comprehensive approach, ensuring that all games can be preserved and played, regardless of publisher support.

It is a consumer movement advocating for game preservation, urging publishers to release games in a playable state after the end of official support.

It was largely sparked by Ubisoft's decision to shut down The Crew, making it unplayable.

They want publishers to implement end-of-life plans to modify or patch games so they can run on customer systems without ongoing support.

Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot stated that support for all games cannot last forever and cited the challenges of maintaining older titles.

Do you think publishers should be required to preserve games after the end of official support? What solutions would you propose? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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