Full Breakdown
Stop Killing Games Establishes NGOs to Combat Game Destruction
2/21/2026, 7:48:38 PM
Core Event: Launch of NGOs in the US and EU
The Stop Killing Games campaign, initiated by YouTuber Ross Scott in response to the shutdown of Ubisoft's game *The Crew*, has expanded its efforts by establishing two non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in the United States and the European Union. This development aims to facilitate long-term counter-lobbying and watchdog actions against the practice of video game publishers disabling games without providing refunds or alternatives. Scott announced these initiatives in a recent video on his Accursed Farms YouTube channel, expressing optimism about the campaign's future.
Background & Context: Growth of the Movement
The campaign began as a grassroots effort fueled by frustration over game closures, amassing 1.3 million verified signatures on its petition, which mandated consideration by the European Union. The establishment of the NGOs marks a significant shift from mere petitions to formal political advocacy, with the goal of addressing the legal and consumer rights issues surrounding game destruction.
Key Figures & Groups: Leadership of the NGOs
Moritz Katzner, a German political operative, will lead the EU NGO. Scott praised Katzner's contributions to the movement, noting his involvement in legislative processes in the US as well. The NGOs aim to create a sustained presence in political discussions, ensuring that the movement continues even if Scott steps back from active involvement.
Official Statements & Responses
Scott highlighted the advantages of the NGOs, stating, "This will allow us to do long-term counter lobbying on this issue," and emphasized the importance of persistence in political advocacy. He expressed skepticism about the potential for significant reform in the US due to a lack of legal foundations compared to the EU, but acknowledged that the US is ahead in drafting legislation on the matter.
Criticism & Opposition: Concerns from the EU Commission
Despite the positive momentum, there are concerns regarding the implications of the campaign's initiatives. During a closed meeting with the EU Commission, Scott noted that the commission appeared to be influenced by the gaming industry, raising worries about the potential burden on small developers and indie creators. Scott firmly pushed back against these concerns, advocating for consumer rights.
Data & Statistics: Legal Foundations and Support
The legal backing for the campaign is strengthening, with law professor Alberto Hidalgo Cerezo conducting a comprehensive legal study. His findings suggest that disabling games without a stated time limit may violate EU consumer protection laws. Additionally, the campaign reportedly has majority support in the European Parliament, positioning it favorably for legislative action.
What's Next: Future Developments
The Stop Killing Games campaign is not only focused on the US and EU but is also exploring the possibility of expanding its reach globally. Discussions are underway to establish a presence in regions such as Australia and Brazil, aiming to address consumer rights issues on a broader scale.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Let me start off by saying, I think we're going to win this, namely the problem of publishers destroying video games that you've already paid for,” — Ross Scott, Advocate
- “The first is that this will allow us to do long-term counter lobbying on this issue,” — Ross Scott, Advocate
- “I did not see that coming.” — Ross Scott, on the US NGO's progress
The establishment of these NGOs represents a pivotal moment for the Stop Killing Games campaign, as it transitions from grassroots activism to a structured political movement aimed at protecting consumer rights in the gaming industry.
