Pennsylvania Senator John Kane has introduced a legislative proposal that could change how gamers interact with digital games. The Protect Our Games Act aims to give players more control over their digital purchases when online services end. This matters because many gamers lose access to games they bought outright once servers shut down. The bill seeks to balance publisher rights with consumer ownership expectations.
Legislation mandates 60-day notice and refunds for discontinued online games
The legislation targets game publishers who operate online multiplayer services. It would force these companies to notify players at least 60 days before shutting down servers or restricting access. This notice period gives players time to adjust their gaming habits or seek alternatives. The law applies to most commercial games but excludes subscription services and certain free-to-play titles.
Publishers would need to offer one of three remedies to affected players. They could provide offline play capabilities, a patch for independent online use, or a refund. Refund amounts must match the maximum digital price within the last 12 months. The refund must also be at least 25% of the original cost paid by the player. This structure ensures players get some value back even if they cannot play online.
The proposal cites digital ownership issues and references Sony's plan to stop producing PlayStation discs in 2028. This context highlights growing concerns about physical media disappearing from the market. The bill does not apply to subscription services or certain free-to-play games. It focuses on traditional paid games where players expect long-term access.
The document has not yet been officially introduced for consideration in the State Senate. This means the proposal is still in a draft or preliminary stage. Players and publishers should monitor the situation as it develops. The legislation could set a precedent for other states considering similar consumer protection measures.
Source: IXBT
