Ross Scott addresses the Stop Killing Games movement at Ars Live event
The ongoing issue of video game preservation has emerged as a significant concern for players and industry professionals alike. With the increasing prevalence of digital games, many gamers have encountered the frustrating reality of beloved titles becoming unplayable when centralized online servers are shut down. Furthermore, the removal of digitally distributed games from online stores has made it impossible for players to purchase and download critically acclaimed titles from the past.
The growing discourse around this issue has been galvanized by movements like the Stop Killing Games campaign, founded in 2024 by Ross Scott in response to Ubisoft’s decision to shut down the servers for their racing title, “The Crew.” Since its inception, the campaign has amassed millions of signatures on petitions appealing for legislative action to ensure continued access to games purchased by consumers. This effort seeks to create frameworks that either guarantee ongoing support for centralized servers or allow players the option to host their own servers.
The momentum of the Stop Killing Games campaign has played a pivotal role in advocating for video game preservation. Its influence has been acknowledged by various governmental bodies, leading to an official parliamentary debate by the European Commission and the introduction of pertinent legislation currently navigating through the California legislature. These developments underscore a growing recognition of the importance of maintaining access to video games, which serve not only as entertainment but also as a cultural artifact, reflective of our social history.
Upcoming discussions will delve deeper into this pressing issue, including conversations about gamers’ motivations and the broader implications for the industry. Scott will participate in a live dialogue addressing the intricacies of the preservation debate, touching on the recent decision by Sony to cease the production of physical PlayStation titles by 2028. Such industry shifts are likely to influence not only game availability but also the broader landscape of digital entertainment.
As the conversation continues, key questions remain: To what extent can legislative measures effectively address the challenges of video game preservation? Is it feasible to impose systems that guarantee long-term access without stifling innovation? These discussions are critical as the gaming community strives to ensure that future generations can experience the rich tapestry of video games from the past.
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