Ubisoft shareholders demand response to Stop Killing Games movement

Shareholders at Ubisoft have called for a response to the Stop Killing Games initiative, highlighting public concern.

Ubisoft shareholders demand answers related to Stop Killing Games movement

Ubisoft shareholders have urged the company to respond to the rising support for the Stop Killing Games movement. This initiative, started by Ross Scott on YouTube, aims to address concerns about purchased games becoming unplayable due to publisher decisions, particularly following Ubisoft's removal of online services for The Crew. The game’s servers were shut down last March, blocking access to both multiplayer and single-player elements. Following that, Ubisoft also began revoking licenses for the game. In a response, CEO Yves Guillemot emphasized that while the company provides support, it is not feasible to maintain all services indefinitely. He also cited the need for a clear message about game lifespan and the nature of service-driven titles. However, the Stop Killing Games campaign argues for an end-of-life plan that allows games to remain playable without ongoing support, a demand that has gained over 1 million signatures.

The tension between Ubisoft and its players underscores a growing issue in the gaming industry regarding digital ownership and access. As more games require online connectivity, the risks of losing access become higher for consumers. Many players now seek assurance that titles will remain playable even after official support ends. Despite Guillemot's insistence that this issue affects all publishers, the distinct frustrations voiced by gamers show a demand for more responsible practices from companies. If this movement continues to gather momentum, it could compel publishers not just to adapt their strategies, but potentially reshape industry norms around digital game preservation.

Highlights

The outcome of this movement could significantly alter how digital games are managed in the future.