Over 1.2 Million Sign Petition Against Discontinuing Online Game Services, Prompting Response from Video Games Europe

A growing movement, Stop Killing Games, has gained significant traction, prompting a response from Video Games Europe, a representative of the gaming industry. The movement highlights the issue of online media depreciation, where games are sold without an expiration date but become unplayable once publisher support ends. This practice, known as planned obsolescence, is detrimental to customers and makes preservation impossible. With over 1.2 million signatures, Video Games Europe has acknowledged the community's passion but emphasized that the decision to discontinue online services is never taken lightly and must be an option for companies. The organization notes that private servers are not always a viable alternative, as they would compromise player data security and leave rights holders liable. The UK Government has also responded to a similar petition, recognizing concerns but stating that it has no plans to amend existing consumer law on digital obsolescence.