Ubisoft at the Center of Controversy for Asking the Unthinkable About Your Physical Game Copies

Ubisoft Under Fire for Questioning Physical Game Preservation Amidst Growing Concerns

Video game preservation has become a critical concern for players, especially as the industry increasingly relies on digital distribution. Efforts to prevent games from becoming unplayable over time are gaining momentum, notably with the “Stop Killing Games” petition, which recently reached a significant milestone. Amidst these discussions, Ubisoft has once again drawn criticism for its corporate practices.

Ubisoft is currently facing scrutiny regarding a clause in its End User License Agreement (EULA). According to the gaming advocacy group Does It Play, Article 8 of the EULA, which addresses product termination, grants the company the right to cease offering and supporting a product. Should this occur, the agreement reportedly requires users to immediately uninstall the product and delete all copies in their possession. The organization has strongly criticized this provision, emphasizing that it demands the destruction of legally purchased physical game copies. Does It Play argues that the wording refers to the product itself, which users own, rather than merely a temporary license. Gamers widely view this stipulation as absurd, as there is no legal justification for publishers to demand the disposal of physical products that consumers have lawfully purchased.

Ubisoft is not alone in including such a controversial clause; companies like Rockstar Games, Sega, and Valve also feature similar provisions in their contracts. This prevalence has led some to speculate about a potential underlying legal requirement. However, Ubisoft’s action last year of rendering “The Crew” unplayable particularly angered gamers, strengthening their resolve to prevent similar situations. This incident directly led to the launch of the “Stop Killing Games” petition. Initiated by content creator Ross Scott on April 24, 2024, the campaign aims to compel publishers to ensure games remain playable even after official support ends, including online-only titles. The petition has garnered over a million signatures worldwide. Discussions surrounding game preservation issues frequently cite Electronic Arts’ service game, “Anthem,” as another controversial example. The ongoing efforts to protect video game access highlight a growing concern within the gaming community, urging publishers to reconsider practices that threaten the longevity of digital and physical game ownership.

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