Ubisoft’s Controversial Stance on Game Ownership and The Crew Shutdown
Ubisoft has reignited discussions about player ownership in the gaming industry following its decision to shut down The Crew. This move has sparked debate over whether players truly own the digital games they purchase or merely access a limited license.
The Shutdown of The Crew
In December 2023, Ubisoft quietly delisted The Crew from all digital storefronts, confirming that this online-only game would be officially inaccessible starting April 2024. Ubisoft announced, “After almost a decade of support, we will be decommissioning The Crew 1 on March 31, 2024.” This decision, while anticipated, disappointed many longstanding players who enjoyed the game’s engaging open-world experience.
Legal Action Against Ubisoft
The shutdown has led to legal action from two affected players who accuse Ubisoft of violating California’s consumer protection laws. They argue that Ubisoft misled consumers by selling The Crew as a purchasable game while only providing a limited access license. The plaintiffs claim that the product packaging was deceptive, implying that the game itself was stored on physical disks or digital downloads, rather than serving merely as a key to access Ubisoft’s servers.
Ubisoft’s Defense
In response to the lawsuit, Ubisoft is seeking to have the case dismissed, claiming that players should not have expected indefinite ownership of an online-only game, even if they purchased a physical edition. Ubisoft’s legal representatives have emphasized that customers cannot claim “unfettered ownership rights in the game” due to its online nature and licensing agreements.
Claims of Misleading Activation Codes
In a recent amended complaint, the plaintiffs allege Ubisoft misled consumers regarding activation codes for The Crew, which were set to expire in 2099, creating a false impression of long-term access. Moreover, the plaintiffs assert that Ubisoft’s currency system meets the legal definition of a gift card, which would violate state laws regarding expiration.
Ubisoft’s Response to Fan Backlash
Following backlash from the gaming community in September, Ubisoft announced plans to introduce offline modes for The Crew 2 and The Crew: Motorfest. Stéphane Beley, the senior creative director, acknowledged community concerns and expressed a commitment to ensuring long-term access to these titles. Ubisoft aims to explore various solutions to extend the gameplay experience beyond online connectivity.
The Broader Impact on Gamers and Digital Ownership
The controversy surrounding The Crew raises broader questions about digital ownership in the gaming industry. As more games shift to online-only models, players may find themselves confronting the reality that their access to games can be revoked at any time. The outcomes of this legal battle could set vital precedents for future game development and consumer rights, making it a significant moment for gamers and publishers alike.
