The European citizens’ initiative « Stop Killing Games » has garnered support from gamers, with its petition collecting over 1.4 million signatures. Its goal is to require publishers and developers to guarantee unlimited access to their games without shutting down servers or removing them from sale.
This effort to preserve video games is now in the hands of the European Parliament. A public hearing was held there in early May. The European Commission now has until July 27, 2026, to issue its decision. However, the gaming industry is putting up a fight.
Yes, the Entertainment Software Association (ESA) in the United States has decided to oppose the « Protect Our Games Act » in California. This law follows the broad outlines of « Stop Killing Games ». The ESA puts forward several arguments, such as the fact that maintaining servers indefinitely is too « complicated » , « costly », and poses « security risks ».
Furthermore, the organization representing industry professionals in the U.S. points out that games are sold as licenses and not as traditional goods. It is also noted that, like all existing software, games are under no obligation to remain available to consumers for life.
Finally, the ESA accuses the bill of seeking to « create a new consumer right regarding digital games by depriving creators of their rights ». This would result in « fewer games, higher costs, and less innovation ». The ESA is therefore calling for a « no » vote.
