The UK House of Commons held a debate on November 3, 2025, discussing improved consumer protections and preservation for video games, using Sony's Concord as a key example of sudden shutdowns. Lawmakers highlighted the need for clearer information on game longevity at purchase, referencing the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024. The debate, led by MP Ben Goldsborough, addressed concerns from the Stop Killing Games movement amid no plans for new laws.
Debate Overview
On November 3, 2025, members of the UK House of Commons debated enhancing consumer rights for video game buyers, focusing on protections against sudden game shutdowns and the preservation of digital content. The discussion was prompted by recent cases in the live-service gaming sector, with Sony's hero shooter Concord serving as a prominent example. Released in August 2024 for PlayStation 5 and Windows PC, Concord was shut down just two weeks after launch due to poor reception, though Sony issued full refunds to purchasers.
MP Ben Goldsborough led the debate, invoking the goals of the Stop Killing Games movement, which arose following Ubisoft's shutdown of The Crew. He emphasized the emotional and temporal investments gamers make, stating, "Gamers still feel the deep sense of personal possession, because they invest more than money. They invest time, effort, imagination, and friendship. When a game shuts down without notice, that investment is lost." Goldsborough also noted the industry's £7.6 billion contribution to the UK economy and 75,000 jobs, urging support for game preservation as a cultural legacy.
Key Examples and Legislation
An unnamed MP cited Concord directly, saying, "A recent example is Concord, a game released for PlayStation 5 and Windows in August 2024. Following a disappointing launch, Sony Interactive Entertainment made a commercial decision to shut it down. To their credit, they did refund all purchases, but this isn't always the case." Other titles mentioned included The Crew, which sparked the Stop Killing Games initiative and a lawsuit, and Anthem, whose servers are set to shut down later in 2025.
Lawmakers welcomed the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024, effective earlier this year, which mandates clear information on digital product longevity. However, concerns were raised about publisher responsibilities during acquisitions or closures, countered by calls for "natural justice" allowing ongoing access to purchased games. Despite strong support from MPs, the government briefing indicates no intention to amend existing laws like the Consumer Rights Act 2015, deeming current protections sufficient.