The potential threat of your digital games disappearing suddenly

News that GOG.com has recently delisted 29 games serves as a stark reminder that the games we own on digital platforms can disappear without warning. This phenomenon is not limited to obscure titles; even well-known games on platforms like Steam and Origin are not immune to delisting.

Why can games that we have legitimately purchased vanish from our libraries at any time? Are there no consumer protection laws in place to prevent this?

How is it that my games can just vanish?

The laws governing digital assets vary depending on your location, but in most jurisdictions, there are no clear laws establishing that you definitively own and have perpetual rights to your digital games.

The Federal Trade Commission in the U.S. outlines some reasons why this is the case. When you purchase a game on a digital platform, you’re essentially paying for access to the content rather than owning the game itself. If the seller changes their terms, goes out of business, or encounters licensing issues, the content can become inaccessible.

This scenario occurs more frequently than many realize. Games like Titanfall, Battlefield 2, Rocket League, Fable 3, Deadpool, Evolve, Mortal Combat, Assassin’s Creed Origins, Darksiders III, and Far Cry 5 have all been delisted from platforms like Steam and Origin.

What reasons do the platforms give for delisting?

When platforms do provide reasons for delisting, they can vary significantly. Issues like expiring licenses led to the removal of games like the James Bond title Quantum of Solace from Steam. In Rocket League’s case, the decision to delist the game from Steam in 2021 was due to its transition to free-to-play on the Epic Game Store.

Other reasons for delisting games can include server shutdowns, malicious activity, or declining player bases. Battlefield 2 was removed from Steam when the multiplayer server company, GameSpy, shut down. Similarly, Titanfall’s removal was influenced by multiple DDOS attacks on its online servers.

Games may also be delisted if they lose a substantial portion of their player base, as was the situation with EA’s Need for Speed franchise. Once games become outdated or cease to hold players’ interest, they are at risk of being delisted.

The removal of Need for Speed games from several platforms caused a backlash among fans in 2021. In response, EA stated that the studios lacked the resources to maintain the games beyond their usefulness.

So, what should you do about it?

One possible solution is to purchase physical copies of games, but not all titles are available in physical form. Even with a physical copy, the software license imposes restrictions on ownership. Considering the absence of clear laws to protect gamers from delisting, exploring new legal protections or initiatives to preserve games with active player bases could be beneficial.

Ultimately, the power lies in where you choose to buy and play your digital games. Different platforms have varying terms and conditions, so it’s crucial to understand the agreements you enter into.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, the issue of delisted games highlights the fragile nature of digital ownership in the gaming industry. As players, we must be vigilant about the terms and conditions we agree to when purchasing games on digital platforms. While the current legal landscape may not offer robust protections for gamers, advocating for better safeguards and exploring alternative solutions could help preserve beloved games for future generations to enjoy. Remember, the power is in your hands to make informed choices about where and how you acquire your digital games. Stay informed, stay engaged, and let’s work together to ensure the longevity of our favorite titles.