Bill to block publishers from killing online games advances in California

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A bill aimed at preserving long-term playable access to online games has cleared a major hurdle in California, passing out of the Assembly's appropriations committee. This paves the way for a floor vote by the full legislative body, a significant victory for the grassroots game preservation movement known as Stop Killing Games. The proposed legislation, dubbed the Protect Our Games Act, targets digital game publishers who choose to discontinue support for online games.

Under the bill, such publishers would be required to either offer a full refund to players or provide an updated version of the game that allows continued play without reliance on the publisher's services. Additionally, publishers would be obligated to notify players 60 days prior to the cessation of essential services. The Entertainment Software Association, which represents the interests of the gaming industry, had lobbied against the bill.

However, the legislation has garnered support from advocates of game preservation. If passed, the Protect Our Games Act would apply to games sold in California on or after January 1, 2027, with certain exceptions. Notably, the bill would not cover completely free games or those offered solely for the duration of a subscription.

The bill's advancement is seen as a major win for the Stop Killing Games movement, which has been pushing for measures to protect gamers' access to online titles. As the legislation moves closer to a full Assembly vote, industry stakeholders and gamers alike are watching closely. The Protect Our Games Act's prospects for passage are uncertain, but its progression thus far signals a growing willingness among lawmakers to address the issue of game preservation.

If enacted, the law would mark a significant shift in the relationship between game publishers and players, potentially setting a precedent for other jurisdictions to follow. The bill's authors and supporters argue that it is essential to protect consumers' rights and ensure that gamers can continue to enjoy the games they purchase, even if publishers decide to discontinue support.