California's New Bill Forces 60-Day Warning Before Game Shutdowns

California’s State Assembly has passed the Protect Our Games Act (AB 1921) with a vote of 43 to 16. The bill aims to safeguard players from sudden game shutdowns by requiring companies to give 60 days’ notice before ending online support. Advocacy group Stop Killing Games has played a key role in pushing the legislation forward since its launch in 2024. The bill was inspired by a San Diego resident frustrated with games being shut down shortly after purchase. Under the new rules, companies must either allow players to keep accessing the game after servers close or provide refunds.

Stop Killing Games, an organisation focused on preserving online games, strongly supported the proposal. Founder Ross Scott and Moritz Katzner even presented their case to the European Parliament in April. However, the Entertainment Software Association (ESA) opposes the bill, arguing it could disrupt game development. In response, Stop Killing Games framed the debate as a clash between consumer rights and industry control. The bill now moves to the California State Senate for further consideration.

If approved by the Senate, the Protect Our Games Act would mark a major win for player protections. Companies would face stricter rules on server shutdowns, ensuring players get fair warning or compensation. The outcome will determine whether similar laws could spread beyond California.