Stop Killing Games says 'the fight goes on' after European Commission rejects proposed rule changes: 'We're much more than just this single petition'

Stop Killing Games' Fight Continues as European Commission Rejects New Rules

The Stop Killing Games movement has come a long way since its inception, evolving from a grassroots campaign into a force that has captured the attention of policymakers across Europe. After a recent decision by the European Commission, the group has reiterated its commitment to the cause, stating that "the fight goes on." While the Commission has rejected proposed rule changes that would require publishers to keep their games playable after server shutdowns, it has pledged to explore ways to improve industry standards by the end of 2026.

The European Commission's decision highlights the complex interplay between intellectual property rights and consumer expectations. According to the Commission, existing EU copyright law grants rights holders exclusive control over their creations, which makes it difficult to impose new legal requirements that could conflict with these rights. Other intellectual property protections may also apply, covering various visual and technological elements of a video game.

In its announcement, the Commission noted that existing legal frameworks already provide important safeguards for consumers. These include requirements for publishers to inform players about a game's reliance on external servers and the potential for it to become inoperable if those servers are discontinued. Additionally, contractual remedies are in place for situations where the content or service provided does not meet consumer expectations.

Despite the Commission's decision, Stop Killing Games remains focused on its mission. The group has outlined several next steps, including continued efforts to draft the Protect Our Games (POG) Act in the US and adapt it for the EU. They also plan to leverage existing legislation in the EU to push forward their agenda and are building a new team called Stop Killing the Internet to expand their influence.

The Movement's Broader Vision

In a message posted to Reddit, Stop Killing Games acknowledged that the Commission's decision was not unexpected. However, the group emphasized that their work is far from over. Moritz Katzner, an organizer with Stop Killing Games, highlighted the importance of continuing the movement’s momentum, stating that they owe it to Ross Scott, the YouTuber who launched the campaign, and to the millions of people who have supported them.

Katzner also pointed out that Stop Killing Games is not defined by a single petition. The group has made significant progress in various regions, including the US, France, and the UK, and is actively working on multiple fronts. Their focus is on ensuring that game publishers are held accountable for the long-term viability of their products.

Ross Scott echoed these sentiments in a video released after the ruling, expressing confidence that the movement is on the right track. He emphasized that amendments to the Digital Fairness Act are still within reach, given the majority support in parliament. Scott urged supporters not to be discouraged by the Commission’s decision, stating that everything is still on course to move forward.