The Stop Destroying Video Games petition, gaining momentum across the EU, has surpassed its signature threshold in seven countries, inching closer to its ambitious goal of one million signatures. Let's delve into the details.

Gamers Across Seven EU Countries Rally Support

39% of the 1 Million Signature Goal Achieved

EU gamers are making their voices heard. The Stop Destroying Video Games petition has successfully reached the required signature threshold in Denmark, Finland, Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands, Poland, and Sweden—with some countries exceeding their targets. This impressive collective effort has garnered 397,943 signatures, representing a significant 39% of the one million signature goal.

Launched in June, this petition addresses the growing concern of unplayable games due to publisher-initiated server shutdowns. The initiative aims to establish legislation compelling publishers to maintain the functional playability of online games, even after official support ends. The petition argues that publishers should not remotely disable games without providing reasonable alternatives to ensure continued gameplay independent of publisher involvement. As stated in the petition: "This initiative calls to require publishers that sell or license videogames to consumers in the European Union (or related features and assets sold for videogames they operate) to leave said videogames in a functional (playable) state. Specifically, the initiative seeks to prevent the remote disabling of videogames by the publishers, before providing reasonable means to continue functioning of said videogames without the involvement from the side of the publisher."

The petition highlights the controversial shutdown of Ubisoft's The Crew, a 2014 open-world racing game with a reported 12 million players worldwide. Despite its active player base, Ubisoft deactivated servers in March 2024, citing infrastructure and licensing issues. This action sparked outrage, leading to lawsuits from California gamers alleging violation of consumer protection laws.

While significant progress has been made, the petition still requires further support to reach its one million signature goal. EU citizens of voting age are encouraged to visit the petition website and lend their support before the July 31st, 2025 deadline. Although non-EU citizens cannot sign, they can contribute by spreading awareness and encouraging support among eligible individuals.