Thank you for your message and for bringing the European Citizens' Initiative "Stop Destroying Videogames" to our attention. Your question touches on a fundamental issue in the digital age: what does ownership even mean when digital products can simply disappear?

Today, millions of European citizens buy their video games digitally. Yet, they often remain dependent on publisher servers or support to maintain access to the game or additional in-game items they paid for. When this support is discontinued, the product disappears—without compensation, without an alternative. This is unfair, unsustainable, and contrary to consumer expectations when making a purchase.

Your concern is therefore entirely justified. Losing access to a purchased game or content is not only a consumer problem but also a threat to digital sustainability.

We therefore support the call for regulations that oblige publishers to leave video games in a usable state after support ends, for example, by offering an offline mode or providing a clear end-of-life plan. Ending support should not automatically mean the end of the fun or the right of access for those who paid for it. Therefore, I will share your concerns with my colleagues on the Consumer Protection Committee in the European Parliament.

Digital products, like physical goods, must be treated with respect: as something that endures, not simply disappears.

Sincerely,

Kathleen Van Brempt

Group of the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats in the European Parliament (S&D)