### Stop Killing Games: Advocating for Player Rights and Legislation to Preserve Online Gaming
The campaign group Stop Killing Games is working diligently to protect the rights of players by advocating for legislation that would prevent online games from becoming unplayable when publishers shutter their servers. They have recently moved to support a new bill in California aimed at ensuring that consumers are not left stranded with unusable digital games once server support is terminated.
#### The Protect Our Games Act
The legislation in question, known as the “Protect Our Games Act,” was introduced by California State Assembly member Chris Ward in February 2023. This act would require game developers to notify consumers prior to ending support for server-connected games and provide clear information about the game’s functionality post-support. Importantly, it would mandate that companies either update their games to function independently after server shutdowns or offer full refunds.
Stop Killing Games has been actively involved in shaping the bill, advising on its drafting and advocating for the rights of gamers throughout the legislative process. The act’s provisions prohibit the sale of a game within two months of its end-of-life date and outline requirements for publishers to offer alternative means for players to continue enjoying their purchased games.
#### Key Provisions of the Bill
The current iteration of the Protect Our Games Act requires developers to provide one or more of the following options upon a game’s server shutdown:
1. A standalone version of the digital game that can operate independently of the server.
2. A patch or update to the game that allows continued use without server support.
3. A full refund equal to the original purchase price of the game.
Additionally, publishers would be required to issue a notice to players both in-game and on their official websites 60 days prior to the shutdown. This notice must include critical information such as the exact shutdown date, details on which services will no longer be available, known security risks, and instructions for obtaining refunds or continuing game use.
#### Exemptions and Legislative Updates
The bill outlines specific exemptions, notably for subscription services that grant access to games only during the subscription period, free games that are offered without monetary consideration, and games that can be permanently downloaded for offline use.
As of the latest updates, the bill has undergone several revisions since its initial proposal, reflecting ongoing discussions around its provisions. A committee hearing is scheduled, highlighting the legislative body’s continued focus on this important issue.
#### International Efforts and UK Developments
Beyond California, Stop Killing Games is actively promoting similar initiatives in the UK. Despite initial challenges, including debates in Parliament regarding their UK petition, representatives from Stop Killing Games continue to engage with the Department for Culture, Media & Sport, offering their expertise on matters related to the campaign.
Organizers express optimism about their efforts in the UK, indicating a plan to strengthen their presence and amplify their advocacy for gamer rights.
#### Conclusion
As Stop Killing Games champions these legislative initiatives, they aim to create a more sustainable and ethical environment for players in the digital gaming landscape. Their efforts, both in California and the UK, underscore the importance of consumer rights and the necessity for developers to take accountability for the products they deliver. The ongoing developments in legislation and public hearings represent a significant step towards securing a future where gamers are empowered and protected from the abrupt loss of access to their purchased games.
