Stop Destroying Video Games Petition Gains Wide Support in 7 EU Countries

A European Union petition demanding publishers maintain playable online games after support ends is gaining traction. With over 39% of its 1 million signature goal already achieved, the initiative is closer than ever to success.

EU Gamers Unite

Nearly 400,000 Signatures Secured

The "Stop Destroying Video Games" petition has surpassed its signature threshold in seven EU countries: Denmark, Finland, Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands, Poland, and Sweden. The impressive total currently stands at 397,943 signatures—a significant 39% of the required 1 million.

Launched in June, the petition addresses the growing concern of unplayable games following the termination of publisher support. It advocates for legislation compelling publishers to ensure continued functionality of online games, even after official server shutdowns.

As the petition states, publishers should be legally obligated to maintain the playable state of games sold within the EU. This aims to prevent publishers from remotely disabling games without providing reasonable alternatives for continued gameplay.

The petition highlights the controversial shutdown of Ubisoft's The Crew in March 2024. Despite a substantial player base of over 12 million, server closures rendered the game unplayable, sparking outrage and even legal action in California.

While the petition still needs a substantial number of signatures to reach its goal, EU citizens of voting age have until July 31st, 2025 to add their support. Although non-EU citizens cannot sign, they can contribute by promoting the petition to their networks.