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

A European Union petition demanding publishers maintain the playability of online games after server shutdowns is gaining significant traction. The "Stop Destroying Video Games" initiative has already surpassed its signature threshold in seven EU nations.

Significant Progress Towards 1 Million Signatures

The petition, launched in June, has garnered 397,943 signatures—39% of its 1 million target—across Denmark, Finland, Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands, Poland, and Sweden. Several countries have even exceeded their individual goals.

The petition directly addresses the growing concern of games becoming unplayable after publishers end support. It advocates for legislation requiring publishers to ensure games remain functional, even after official server closures. The petition explicitly states its aim to prevent publishers from remotely disabling games without providing reasonable alternatives to maintain functionality.

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

While the petition still needs considerable support to reach its goal, EU citizens of voting age have until July 31st, 2025, to sign. Non-EU gamers can contribute by spreading awareness of this important initiative.