UK Government Addresses Concerns Over Video Game Preservation

A recent campaign, Stop Killing Games, has sparked a response from the UK government regarding the practice of rendering older video games unplayable by withdrawing online support. The campaign's petition, which garnered over 10,000 signatures, prompted a statement from the Department of Culture, Media & Sport. The Department clarified that while there is no legal requirement for companies to maintain support for older games, they must adhere to consumer laws and regulations. This includes ensuring that games remain playable if consumers were led to believe they would be playable indefinitely. The campaign was initiated in response to Ubisoft's decision to shut down online support for the 2014 game The Crew, rendering it unplayable. The organisers are exploring legal action and have started similar petitions in other countries, including Australia and Canada. The issue highlights the need for the gaming industry to consider the long-term preservation of games and transparency regarding their lifespan.