The Stop Killing Games campaign has surpassed a major milestone with over 1 million signatures in its mission to safeguard video games for future generations—but the battle continues.
On July 3, this consumer-driven movement achieved its initial target, establishing itself as one of gaming's most impactful petitions—one still gaining momentum. The initiative fights to preserve beloved games (and lesser-known titles alike) as the industry shifts toward an increasingly digital landscape.
Many games we purchase today are designed to become unplayable when publishers discontinue support. This must change. EU citizens, please consider signing the #stopkillinggames initiative. https://t.co/vlyIEXcpnh pic.twitter.com/nsTusFyGrL
— Pat_ (@Pat8_8) July 2, 2025
Supporters have flooded social media with praise for this effort to protect both multiplayer and single-player experiences. While fans celebrate, organizer Ross Scott clarifies that reaching 1 million signatures marks progress—not success.
"Important update: The European Citizens' Initiative appears to have crossed 1 million signatures—except it hasn't," Scott explained in yesterday's video. "This may disappoint supporters, but two issues exist. First, errors during signing invalidate submissions, meaning we need extra signatures to compensate. Second, we've detected fake signatures artificially boosting our numbers."
"This isn't a Change.org petition," Scott emphasized. "Forging signatures constitutes a crime under EU law. Fraudulent submissions will be flagged by the EU Commission and potentially investigated by Europol."
If you made errors signing or aren't sure about your submission, contact official spokesperson Daniel Ondruska via the "more info" section for EU verification assistance: https://t.co/EpnNTDR85U
— Accursed Farms (@accursedfarms) July 4, 2025
To account for invalid submissions, the campaign now aims for 1.4 million signatures by July 31. Current verified endorsements stand at 1.07 million.
"We'll keep pushing forward despite these challenges," Scott added. "I know this situation creates tension rather than celebration, but every valid signature brings us closer to change."
Game Preservation Efforts
Scott, creator of the Accursed Farms YouTube channel, launched Stop Killing Games in April 2024 following Ubisoft's shutdown of The Crew. The movement seeks industry-wide reform to maintain game accessibility beyond their commercial lifespan.
A successful campaign could compel publishers to keep servers running for titles like the recently discontinued Anthem or online-dependent single-player games such as Death Stranding. The initiative requires sufficient public support to prompt EU legislation protecting consumer rights.
ANTHEM'S DEMISE HIGHLIGHTS THE ISSUE
— Accursed Farms (@accursedfarms) July 3, 2025
Despite mixed reviews, Anthem's intriguing world deserved exploration. Its closure reinforces why we need #StopKillingGames. https://t.co/fDsq0ZsP8K
The campaign champions both developer creativity and consumer rights, mobilizing hundreds of thousands of supporters. After initial momentum waned, Scott's recent "The End of Stop Killing Games" video spurred renewed attention, with influencers like Jacksepticeye and Cr1TiKaL amplifying the message.
Though reaching 1.4 million signatures remains uncertain, Scott believes success could revolutionize game preservation: "If we achieve this, the EU will likely enact laws protecting purchased games while significantly advancing preservation efforts."
Success could restore consumer confidence in game ownership, ensuring playability regardless of publisher decisions. Stay updated with IGN's coverage of this developing story, including Stop Killing Games' additional achievements and how GOG's preservation efforts complement this movement.
