The Petition That Ignited a Revolution: Reclaiming Our Digital Rights

The Stop Killing Games petition is not merely a list of names; it's a declaration. It's a fundamental challenge to the erosion of digital ownership in the 21st century. As gamers worldwide unite under this banner, we are at the forefront of a pivotal battle that will define consumer rights for generations to come, far beyond the world of gaming.

The Crisis of Disappearing Games

When Ubisoft's The Crew was shut down in March 2024, it wasn't just a game that vanished—it was a stark wake-up call. Millions of players realized that the games they had "purchased" could be taken from them without warning. 1 The petition's core argument strikes a chord with every consumer: "While video games are primarily just for entertainment... the practice of a seller destroying a product someone has already paid for represents a radical assault on consumer rights and even the concept of ownership itself." 1

This fight transcends gaming. It's about setting a crucial precedent for all digital goods, from software to streaming media. 1 As Associate Professor Bob De Schutter of Northeastern University warns, "We're at a tipping point where digital ownership norms are being challenged." 1

A Global Roar for Change

The response has been nothing short of extraordinary. 5 The European Citizens' Initiative shattered the 1 million signature milestone on July 3, 2025, becoming a landmark achievement in gaming advocacy. 5 This victory forces the European Commission to formally consider the petition, opening the door to revolutionary new laws.

In the UK, the petition also hit a critical milestone of 100,000 signatures, securing a parliamentary debate. 4 However, the government's initial response—that they have "no plans to amend consumer law on digital obsolescence"—has only fueled our resolve. 3

Rewriting the Rules of Ownership

Our petition directly confronts outdated legal frameworks. 3 In the UK, the Consumer Rights Act 2015 promises that digital content will be "of satisfactory quality, fit for a particular purpose and as described by the seller." 3 We argue that a game designed to self-destruct is a flagrant violation of this promise.

The Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations are our sharpest legal tool. 3 If a company leads customers to believe a game will be playable long-term, they are legally and morally obligated to ensure it remains so, even after official support ends. 3

The Poison of Planned Obsolescence

This petition shines a spotlight on a toxic industry practice: planned digital obsolescence. 3 While most games can function indefinitely, some are intentionally designed with a kill switch, a date of expiration known only to the publisher. 3 This robs consumers of their purchases and denies them the right to preserve their own digital history.

The damage is more than financial. 1 For lifelong gamers, especially those who grew up with the medium, losing a game is like losing a piece of their personal history. 1 It's a betrayal that cuts deep, turning cherished memories into digital dust.

Shaking the Industry to Its Core

Our collective voice is already forcing change. 5 A mere ten days after the petition hit 300,000 signatures, industry giant Ubisoft—the very company that sparked this movement—announced it would explore offline modes for The Crew 2 and The Crew Motorfest. 5

This is just the beginning. Our success will pressure other publishers and platform holders to build safeguards like offline modes and long-term preservation commitments into their business models. 1 As De Schutter states, "It will likely require sustained pressure and clearer consumer rights around digital goods to create real, lasting change." 1

This Is Bigger Than Games

The Stop Killing Games petition has evolved into something far greater than its origins. It is the frontline of a global movement to redefine digital ownership for everyone. 1 While it began as a response to a gaming issue, its victory will echo across every digital industry.

A win here will set a powerful precedent, protecting consumers of all digital media, from software and movies to music and books. We are not just fighting for our games; we are fighting for a future where "buy" means "own."

Your Signature is Your Voice: Take Action Now

The fight is not over. We need every signature to counteract invalid entries and to present an undeniable mandate to regulatory bodies. 5 If you believe in digital rights, your support for this petition is a powerful step toward enacting real, lasting change.

In the words of movement founder Ross Scott: "If we can pass the signature threshold, there is a very strong chance that the European Commission will pass new law that will both protect consumer rights to retain video games that customers have purchased and advance preservation efforts massively." 5

This isn't just about saving games. It's about securing our fundamental rights as digital consumers in a world that is increasingly online. The future of digital ownership is being written right now, and your voice can help shape it.