Stop Killing Games Supports New Legislation
Stop Killing Games, a campaign advocating for the rights of gamers, has thrown its support behind a California bill that would require game publishers to either update titles to function independently after server shutdowns or provide refunds. This initiative, known as the "Protect our Games Act," aims to ensure that players are not left with unplayable games when servers are turned off.
The bill, initially proposed by California Assembly member Chris Ward in February, addresses consumer rights in the gaming industry. According to the latest update from Stop Killing Games, the group played a significant role in shaping the legislation, which includes essential provisions for game publishers. The legislation mandates companies to notify players about impending server closures and offer clear information on how the game will function post-shutdown.
As detailed on Ward's website, the bill requires publishers to provide options that would allow users to continue playing their games after support ends. Possible solutions include delivering a version of the game that operates independently of the original servers, issuing patches to make the game playable offline, or giving full refunds for the purchase price.
A critical aspect of the bill is the requirement for publishers to notify players 60 days in advance of any server shutdown. This notification must outline the exact shutdown date, features that will no longer be available, any potential security risks, and details on how players can continue using their game or obtain a refund.
While the current version of the legislation will primarily affect games sold after January 1st, 2027, it aims to set a precedent for consumer protection in the gaming industry. Exemptions exist for subscription services and free games, but the bill still represents a significant step toward ensuring that players are treated fairly.
Meanwhile, the Stop Killing Games campaign is also making strides in the UK. Organiser Moritz Katzner reported that he recently advised the UK government on matters related to the campaign. Although the UK petition has been debated in parliament, Katzner emphasized that their efforts are ongoing and that they plan to strengthen their presence in the region.
With the hearing for the California bill scheduled for April 16th, coinciding with a European Parliament session regarding the UK campaign, the future of these initiatives will be closely watched. The gaming community is eager to see how this legislation will impact the industry and whether it will set a standard for game preservation.