Ubisoft’s 2014 racing game, The Crew, came to a sudden halt on March 31st. The game, which relied heavily on online servers to operate, left players stranded at a splash screen with an error message following the servers’ shutdown. This move by Ubisoft signifies the end of an era for The Crew and its loyal fan base.
In a shocking turn of events, Ubisoft decided to take things one step further by revoking The Crew licenses from purchasers and completely removing the game from their libraries. Players reported that The Crew had been moved to a new section called ‘Inactive Games’ in their Ubisoft Connect libraries, rendering it impossible to download or install the game. Instead, a message taunts players with the phrase, “You no longer have access to this game. Why not check the Store to pursue your adventures?”
This abrupt decision by Ubisoft raises serious concerns about player rights and the long-term implications of purchasing digital products. The lack of accountability on the part of the publisher has left many players in a state of uncertainty about the fate of other games they have paid for. With no guarantees of continued access to purchased games, players are left in the dark about the value of their investment.
The closure of The Crew has left a void in the gaming community, especially for those who enjoyed the unique racing experience it offered. Despite efforts by the community to potentially launch fan servers and keep the game alive, the removal of The Crew from player libraries poses a significant challenge. The ripple effect of this decision is likely to impact future initiatives aimed at preserving digital games and ensuring player rights.
In response to The Crew’s closure, YouTuber Ross Scott has taken a stand by launching Stop Killing Games. This initiative seeks to mobilize grassroots pressure on governments and regulators to address issues related to ownership rights over digital products. The aim is to bring attention to the growing trend of game shutdowns and the implications it has on players and the gaming industry as a whole.
As we reflect on the demise of The Crew and the implications it holds for the future of gaming, it becomes increasingly clear that the industry must address the issue of game preservation and player rights. The fate of The Crew serves as a cautionary tale for both players and developers alike, highlighting the fragility of digital products in an ever-changing landscape.
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