The issue of video game preservation takes center stage in a live conversation as part of the Ars Live series. Ross Scott, founder of the "Stop Killing Games" campaign, will join Ars Technica's Senior Gaming Editor on August 11 at 2:30 pm ET to discuss the growing problem of titles becoming unplayable once centralized servers are shut down.
The Origins of a Movement
Scott founded the Stop Killing Games movement in 2024 following Ubisoft's decision to shut down the servers for "The Crew." Since its inception, the campaign has gathered millions of signatures on government petitions demanding legislative action. The goal is to secure some form of perpetual access for purchased games, either through continued centralized server support or by providing players the option to maintain their own servers.
Legislative and Industry Impact
The movement's efforts have already led to an official parliamentary debate and a response from the European Commission. Additionally, proposed legislation is currently moving through the California legislature. The discussion will also address how recent industry shifts, such as Sony's decision to cease the sale of physical PlayStation discs, are affecting the debate over long-term access to digital media.
