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

The Stop Destroying Video Games petition, making waves across the EU, has surpassed its signature threshold in seven countries, inching closer to its ambitious goal of one million signatures. Let's dive into the details.

Gamers Across Seven EU Countries Show Strong Support

39% of the 1 Million Signature Goal Achieved

EU gamers are rallying behind the Stop Destroying Video Games petition. It has successfully reached the required signature threshold in Denmark, Finland, Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands, Poland, and Sweden—with some countries exceeding their targets. This impressive showing has garnered 397,943 signatures, representing 39% of the one million signature goal.

Launched in June, this petition addresses the growing frustration surrounding the increasing number of online games rendered unplayable after support ends. The initiative champions a law requiring publishers to maintain the functionality of online games, even after official server shutdowns. The petition argues that players should retain access to the games they've purchased.

As stated in the petition: "This initiative calls for publishers selling or licensing videogames (or related features and assets) within the European Union to maintain said videogames in a functional (playable) state. Specifically, it seeks to prevent publishers from remotely disabling videogames without providing reasonable alternatives to ensure continued functionality."

The petition highlights the controversial shutdown of Ubisoft's The Crew, a 2014 open-world racing game with a player base exceeding 12 million. Despite its active community, Ubisoft shut down servers in March 2024, citing infrastructure and licensing issues. This action sparked outrage, with players in California even filing lawsuits, claiming the company violated consumer protection laws by removing access to a purchased game.

While significant progress has been made, the petition still needs considerable support to reach its one million signature goal. EU citizens of voting age are encouraged to visit the petition website and contribute before the July 31st, 2025 deadline. Although non-EU citizens cannot sign, they can help spread awareness and support the cause.