The "Stop Killing Games" petition in the EU has surpassed 1.2 million signatures, eliciting a response from Video Games Europe

The initiative, Stop Killing Games, seeks to draw attention to how online media is being phased out unnecessarily. This movement has gained enough traction to prompt a response from Video Games Europe, an organization representing the gaming industry in the region.

The Stop Killing Games platform claims, as cited by PC Gamer, that many video games are marketed as permanent yet designed to become unusable when publishers withdraw support. This strategy, they argue, amounts to planned obsolescence, challenging both consumers and preservation efforts. Moreover, the legality of such practices remains largely unexplored across various jurisdictions.

Despite questions about the legitimacy of some signatures, the European Citizens' Initiative has gathered over one million supporters. In response, Video Games Europe issued a statement.

"We recognize our community's enthusiasm; however, ceasing online services involves complex considerations, and such decisions are not made lightly. Companies must be able to discontinue services that are no longer financially sustainable," the organization stated. "Although it can be frustrating for gamers, the industry strives to provide adequate notice of changes, complying with relevant consumer laws."

"While private servers are sometimes suggested as alternatives, they often lack the necessary protections for user data, illegal content management, and online safety measures, leaving rights holders vulnerable. Moreover, proposals like these could restrict developer creativity by making it cost-prohibitive to design exclusively online games.

"We are open to discussions with policymakers and those behind the European Citizens Initiative in the forthcoming months."

A UK petition on this subject reached 10,000 signatures in February, prompting a government response. Although the UK Government acknowledged concerns regarding the usability of purchased games and the longevity of digital products, it stated that there are "no plans to revise current consumer legislation on digital obsolescence," but pledged to keep monitoring the situation through the Competition and Market Authority (CMA).

As the UK petition has now exceeded 170,000 signatures, it is set to be discussed in the UK Parliament.