Advocates for the Stop Killing Games movement have taken significant steps forward with the establishment of two non-governmental organizations (NGOs) aimed at combating video game destruction. Ross Scott, a prominent advocate for the movement, announced this development in a recent video posted on the Accursed Farms YouTube channel. The NGOs, one located in Europe and the other in the United States, are part of a strategic initiative for “long-term counter lobbying” and “watchdog actions.”
Scott expressed optimism about the campaign’s potential impact, stating, “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.” He shared updates with supporters, emphasizing the strategic advantages these NGOs will offer in addressing the challenges faced by gamers.
Strategic Advantages of the New NGOs
The formation of these organizations comes after two years of campaigning by Stop Killing Games. Scott outlined two key benefits of the NGOs: enhancing lobbying efforts and increasing watchdog activities. He noted that these entities will enable sustained lobbying on the issue of game destruction, allowing for a more robust response to future incidents.
Scott highlighted a previous initiative where he helped organize a multilingual website with instructions for reporting game shutdowns to consumer protection agencies. He envisions the NGOs replicating such efforts for future cases of game destruction, thereby empowering gamers to take action against publishers.
The NGO in the United States has garnered particular attention, with political activists reportedly inspired by the movement’s efforts. Scott revealed that this group has already secured funding and is in the process of drafting legislation in multiple states, a development he did not foresee. “I did not see that coming,” he remarked. “That we’re having a law drafted on this in the USA before the EU.”
Future Challenges and Expectations
Despite these positive strides, Scott remains cautious about the overall effectiveness of these initiatives in the United States, citing concerns about the existing legal foundation. He expressed skepticism about the movement’s ability to address its core issues in the US, recognizing that the path forward may be complicated.
Looking ahead, the European Commission is expected to provide a definitive response by July 2025. This will include details on its “public hearing” and decision timeline regarding the movement’s objectives. As the campaign evolves, both NGOs aim to serve as localized hubs for advocacy, potentially reshaping the landscape of video game preservation and consumer rights.
The announcement of these NGOs marks a pivotal moment for Stop Killing Games, signaling a renewed commitment to fight against practices that undermine the integrity of purchased video games. With the establishment of these organizations, advocates are hopeful that they can influence change and safeguard the interests of gamers globally.
