The ‘Stop Killing Games’ movement, led by YouTuber Accursed Farms, has gained serious momentum as it challenges the practice of game publishers shutting down access to titles consumers have paid for. The movement has achieved significant milestones, with a UK petition surpassing 100,000 signatures and an EU initiative nearing the 1 million mark. GamingOnLinux reports that the UK petition has reached 126,066 signatures, which means it now qualifies for consideration in Parliament. While reaching this threshold does not guarantee legislative action, it marks a substantial step forward in the campaign to address consumer concerns. The EU initiative, which requires 1 million signatures, has gathered 977,864, although reports indicate that some signatures may be inflated by non-citizens. Despite these potential issues, the movement’s success demonstrates growing public support for reform, signaling a shift in consumer expectations and the potential for meaningful legislative changes in the gaming industry.
The campaign has been met with mixed responses from the gaming industry. Some publishers and developers have expressed support for the initiative, recognizing the importance of consumer satisfaction and long-term brand loyalty. Others, however, have raised concerns about the logistical and financial challenges of maintaining older titles indefinitely. As the movement continues to gain strength, it is likely to influence future discussions on digital rights and consumer protections. The growing interest in this issue reflects a broader trend of consumers demanding more transparency and accountability from the entertainment industry, particularly in the digital space.