California lawmakers explore ways to preserve access to online games
California lawmakers are considering the Protect Our Games Act, which aims to ensure ongoing access to online games even after developers cease support. This initiative is part of a broader movement advocating for the preservation of digital media as cultural heritage. If enacted, the law would impose specific requirements on game publishers regarding access notifications and compensation for players.
- ▪The Protect Our Games Act would require game publishers to maintain access to online games after developer support ends.
- ▪The bill mandates a 60-day notice before any cessation of services necessary for game use.
- ▪Publishers would need to offer refunds or software patches to keep games accessible.
- ▪The law would only apply to games released after January 1, 2027.
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Home > Tech California lawmakers explore ways to preserve access to online games The Protect Our Games Act would require game publishers to maintain ongoing online access to their games. By Phil Clark on May 16, 2026 Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Flipboard Credit: SOPA Images / Getty Images California lawmakers are deliberating a proposed bill, known as the "Protect Our Games Act," that would require publishers to continue offering access to online games even after developers stop supporting them, according to Ars Technica. The bill is part of a wider initiative by the Stop Killing Games preservation movement, which has been active in Europe for some time now.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Mashable.