California Assembly Passes Bill to Preserve Access to Online Games
Quick Look
- The California State Assembly has passed the Protect Our Games Act (AB 1921), requiring publishers to give two months' notice before delisting games, offer refunds, and ensure continued access for players.
- The bill, which excludes free or subscription-based games, now moves to the State Senate.
AI-generated summary
Why It Matters
The California State Assembly has passed the Protect Our Games Act (AB 1921), a bill aimed at ensuring players can still access online games even after companies cease supporting them. Introduced by Assemblymember Chris Ward, the bill addresses concerns arising from game de-listing and lack of continued access.
Cue the Final Fantasy victory music. The California State Assembly passed the Protect Our Games Act, which aims to preserve access to online games even after companies stop supporting them. Assemblymember Chris Ward, who introduced the AB 1921 bill, said it received 43 votes in favor and 16 against, and is now headed to the committee level of the State Senate.
The bill, first introduced in February, in its current form would impose new rules on publishers and "digital game operators" who de-list games, like what happened with Ubisoft and The Crew. The bill requires a company provide a two-month notice to game owners before they delist a game, a full refund if a game is delisted and a way for gamers to still play the game even if the publisher stops supporting it. If passed into law, the Protect Our Games Act would apply to digital games that are released on or after January 1, 2027, but games that are free or subscription-based wouldn't be covered.
What to Watch
AI outlook — possibilities, not facts
The Protect Our Games Act will pass the State Senate and be signed into law.
Likely · Within months
Open Questions
- What specific mechanisms will be used to ensure gamers can still play delisted games?
- How will the 'digital game operators' be defined?
- What are the penalties for companies that violate the act?
- Will there be any exceptions for older games released before January 1, 2027?
