EU Petition Against Video Game Violence Spikes in Popularity

A European Union petition demanding publishers maintain playable online games after support ends is gaining traction. With over 39% of its 1 million signature goal already achieved, the initiative is nearing its target. Let's delve into the details.

EU Gamers Unite Against Abandonware

Nearly 400,000 Signatures Secured

The "Stop Destroying Video Games" petition has surpassed its signature threshold in seven EU nations: Denmark, Finland, Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands, Poland, and Sweden. The impressive total currently stands at 397,943 signatures – a significant 39% of the one million needed.

Launched in June, this petition addresses the growing issue of unplayable games following the termination of publisher support. It advocates for legislation requiring publishers to ensure the continued functionality of online games after closure, preventing the remote disabling of purchased titles.

As the petition states, "This initiative aims to compel publishers selling or licensing video games within the EU (or related assets) to maintain those games in a playable state. It specifically seeks to prevent publishers from remotely disabling games without providing reasonable means for continued gameplay independent of publisher involvement."

The petition highlights the controversial shutdown of Ubisoft's The Crew in March 2024. Despite a substantial player base (over 12 million worldwide), server closures due to infrastructure and licensing issues rendered the game unplayable, sparking outrage and even legal action in California.

While the petition is making significant progress, it still needs substantial support to reach its goal. EU citizens of voting age have until July 31st, 2025 to sign. While non-EU residents can't sign, they can help by spreading awareness of this important initiative.