The Stop Killing Games campaign, led by Ross Scott, plans to create non-governmental organizations in the European Union and the United States to combat publishers ending support for purchased video games. These NGOs will focus on long-term counter lobbying and watchdog activities. The initiative follows the campaign's success in gathering over a million signatures on its petition.
The Stop Killing Games campaign originated as a response to Ubisoft's decision to delist the racing game The Crew, removing access from players' libraries despite prior purchases. This action highlighted broader concerns about publishers' control over digital content. Launched by Ross Scott, the campaign gained momentum and surpassed one million signatures last year, prompting further organizational steps.
In a recent YouTube video, Scott announced plans to form two NGOs: one operating in the European Union and another in the United States. These organizations aim to enable "long-term counter lobbying" against practices where publishers terminate support for video games after sale. Scott expressed optimism, stating, "Let me start off by saying I think we're going to win this, namely the problem of publishers destroying video games that you've already paid for."
The EU-focused NGO will prioritize codifying the original Stop Killing Games petition into European Union law. Both entities plan to implement watchdog measures, including a reporting system for instances where publishers revoke access to bought games. Campaign leaders are scheduled to meet with the European Commission in the near future. Additionally, they are preparing a 500-page legal document that outlines controversial practices within the video game industry.
The campaign's efforts have already influenced industry responses. Following public outcry, Ubisoft introduced an offline mode for The Crew 2, addressing some accessibility concerns raised by the movement.