In a bid to draw attention to the frustrating issue of game shutdowns and their impact on consumers, YouTuber Ross Scott of Accursed Farms has initiated the "Stop Killing Games" campaign. The campaign aims to shed light on the growing number of games that become unplayable once their servers are shut down, leaving players with a broken and useless product.

The recent example of The Crew, a game developed by Ubisoft Ivory Tower, serves as a glaring reminder of this problem. Despite being priced at £25.99 until late December last year, Ubisoft announced that the game's servers would be shut down on March 31, 2024, rendering it unplayable for all players. In contrast, The Crew 2 remains online, and Ubisoft plans to launch The Crew Motorfest on Steam on April 18th.

Scott's campaign seeks to challenge the legal and ethical implications of this practice, as many governments lack clear laws regarding such actions. Through the official campaign website, Scott states that the goal is to have authorities investigate and address this behavior, as it constitutes an infringement on consumer rights and impairs the preservation of media.

The issue at hand is not only frustrating for gamers but also raises questions about game preservation. With games disappearing once their servers are deactivated, it becomes increasingly challenging for enthusiasts to access and enjoy older titles. In the past, hosting one's own server provided a solution, but this option has become obsolete in the current gaming landscape.

While the outcome of the campaign remains uncertain, the "Stop Killing Games" initiative has garnered attention due to the genuine concerns of consumers. It is disheartening to have a purchased game cease functioning entirely, especially considering the significant investment of both money and time that players often put into these experiences.

As the debate surrounding game shutdowns and consumer rights intensifies, it is hoped that authorities worldwide will examine this issue and take necessary steps to protect gamers and ensure the preservation of media. The campaign serves as a powerful reminder that this is not merely a matter of inconvenience, but rather an assault on the rights of consumers and the legacy of gaming as a whole.

Ultimately, the "Stop Killing Games" campaign highlights the need for a more comprehensive approach to game development and the provision of ongoing support. It urges industry stakeholders, game developers, and policymakers to consider the long-term ramifications of shutting down games and prioritize the interests of consumers.