Breakdown
- Ubisoft revoked licenses for The Crew, removing the game from players' libraries after the server shut down.
- This prevents access to both single-player and multiplayer content previously purchased.
- Gamers are outraged, calling the move anti-consumer and voicing support for initiatives like "Stop Killing Games" to fight for digital ownership rights.
Ubisoft has ignited a firestorm of controversy after pulling the rug out from under The Crew owners. Following the game's server shutdown in late March, players are reporting that Ubisoft has revoked their licenses, essentially removing The Crew from their digital libraries.
This comes as a devastating blow, considering the announcement in December only mentioned server decommissioning, not the complete eradication of access to the purchased game itself.
The Crew, an open-world racing title, was heavily reliant on online functionality. While the server shutdown meant losing multiplayer aspects, many gamers held onto the hope of enjoying the single-player campaign. This dream was shattered by the recent license revocation.
Ubisoft Connect libraries now show The Crew relocated to an "inactive games" section, taunting players with a message to "explore the store for new adventures." Attempts to launch existing installations land players in a demo mode, while Steam users are met with a request for a non-existent game key.
The response from the gaming community has been scathing. Many feel this is a blatant disregard for consumer rights. Comments on forums and social media paint a picture of outrage, with terms like "abhorrent behavior" and "ruthless decision" thrown around.
Players are directing their anger towards Ubisoft's practices and rallying behind the "Stop Killing Games" initiative. This movement, spearheaded by YouTuber Ross Scott in response to the initial shutdown announcement, aims to challenge the growing trend of purchased games becoming unplayable.
Ubisoft, when contacted for comment, simply redirected to their original statement citing server infrastructure and licensing constraints as reasons for shutting down The Crew.
This incident reignites the debate about digital ownership and its limitations. With physical media on the decline, gamers are increasingly reliant on digital storefronts. The Ubisoft situation raises a disturbing question: if a company can revoke access to a purchased game, do gamers truly own anything beyond a revocable license?