The UK government has recently addressed a petition regarding the need for “government intervention” to ensure that video games remain playable even after online servers are shut down. This issue was brought to light with the closure of a ten-year-old Ubisoft racing game called The Crew. The government highlighted that there is no legal requirement forcing software companies to maintain support for older versions of their products. Companies may choose to shut down servers due to high maintenance costs and declining user bases. However, sellers must adhere to consumer protection laws, including the Consumer Rights Act 2015 and the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008.
The response from the UK government emphasized that digital content, like video games, must meet certain quality standards and be fit for purpose as described by the seller. A breach of these regulations occurs if the product does not meet reasonable expectations in terms of quality, taking into account factors like price and advertised features. If consumers are misled about the longevity of a game, particularly in terms of offline playability, it may be considered a violation of consumer rights. The response provided resources for consumers to report any breaches of these regulations.
While the closure of The Crew raised concerns about video game obsolescence, the question of whether government regulation is the solution remains debatable. The game’s shutdown was due to server infrastructure and licensing constraints, rather than player-induced changes. Despite being primarily a single-player game, The Crew’s closure left many gamers disappointed. However, expecting games to be supported indefinitely is unrealistic, considering the costs involved in maintaining software and online services.
Instead of relying on government intervention, alternative solutions like engaging with digital distribution platforms such as GOG.com could be more effective. By voicing concerns and showing support for older games on these platforms, gamers may influence decisions regarding game maintenance and support. The petition initiated by YouTuber Ross Scott may raise awareness about video game obsolescence, but long-term sustainability relies on community engagement and industry practices.
The UK government’s response to the petition regarding video game obsolescence sheds light on the complexities of maintaining older games in an evolving digital landscape. While consumer rights must be protected, expecting perpetual support for all games may not be practical. Instead of solely relying on government regulation, collaborative efforts between consumers, developers, and platform providers could lead to more sustainable solutions for preserving access to beloved video games. The debate on video game obsolescence continues, emphasizing the importance of balancing consumer expectations with industry realities.
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