Game Publisher Group Says Stop Killing Games Movement’s Proposals Would ‘Curtail Developer Choice’

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A collection of publishers based in Europe are resisting the ongoing “Stop Killing Games” campaign, arguing that this anti-live service game stance could potentially stifle certain developers. The debate over game conservation has become a contentious topic for both fans and creators, as more and more games and studios shift towards digital-exclusive and live service titles. Many are concerned about the longevity of online-only games and whether they can be adequately preserved, or if games like Ubisoft’s “The Crew” will disappear forever once their servers are shut down. Now, a growing movement centered on preserving online games is picking up momentum.

Over the past few weeks, the “Stop Killing Games” crusade has garnered significant attention, witnessing a spike in backing from the game preservation community. This drive, initiated by renowned gaming YouTuber Ross Scott, has swiftly gathered more than a million signatures from apprehensive gamers worried about the industry’s future. The campaign has also unveiled ambitious targets for its mission, aiming to either present their cause to the UK Parliament or the European Commission upon reaching sufficient signatures. Nevertheless, certain European game publishers are beginning to express opposition to the movement’s principles.

European Publisher Group Pushing Back Against “Stop Killing Games” Movement

According to PCGamer reports, Video Games Europe, a European publishing group, has publicly criticized the growing “Stop Killing Games” campaign. In an official statement, they voiced their viewpoint on the cancellation of live-service games, stating that shutting down games can be a financially viable choice for many studios. They also emphasized the significance of safeguarding user data and removing unlawful content, with developers being held accountable for private servers. Additionally, they contended that the movement could significantly increase the production costs of live-service games.

As a gaming enthusiast, I can’t help but notice the growing trend in the industry towards live-service games. It seems like almost every new release I’m excited about these days falls under this category. From blockbusters like Genshin Impact and Wuthering Waves to online modes in shooters and sports games, it’s clear that the shift towards an online-only model is here to stay. Even though some of these services get shut down just a few years after launch, I can’t deny the allure of continuously updated content and the sense of community they provide.

The initiative to conserve games has led numerous developers to adapt their older titles for seamless play on contemporary systems. For instance, Capcom Fighting Collection 2 aims to bring vintage games onto current-generation consoles, providing easy access to games that are usually scarce and highly desired. Similarly, Nintendo’s “Switch Online” service provides a range of older Nintendo games for subscribers, showcasing timeless classics from their home consoles as well as handheld devices. As the digital landscape evolves, the importance of game preservation remains contentious, with enthusiasts eager to prevent online games from disappearing permanently.

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2025-07-07 02:43