|
|
| Line 39: |
Line 39: |
| <!-- A summary should be made and the rest moved to its own article. -Sojourna --> | | <!-- A summary should be made and the rest moved to its own article. -Sojourna --> |
| {{Excerpt|Protect Our Games Act}} | | {{Excerpt|Protect Our Games Act}} |
|
| |
| <big>Definitions</big>
| |
|
| |
| * Video games are defined as any digital game accessed through any gaming device, computer, mobile device or similar hardware capable of running the game and includes any extra downloadable content [[DLC]]s or add-ons.
| |
| * The bill defines a game studio developer, publisher or entity controlling the purchasers as "operator". The operator has control over authentication systems, [[DRM]]s, server access, updates, etc.
| |
| * The bill defines the "ordinary use" as the ability to use the game's core features with reasonable consumer expectations at the time of purchase.
| |
|
| |
| <big>Consumer notice requirements</big>
| |
|
| |
| At least 60 days before ending service, the operator would be required to:
| |
| * Notify purchasers directly through the game.
| |
| * Post a public notice on the operator website.
| |
|
| |
| The notice has to include:
| |
| * Shutdown date.
| |
| * The services that are being terminated.
| |
| * The features that will become unavailable.
| |
| * The security risks that are associated with the shutdown.
| |
| * Information for the players on how they may continue using the game or obtain a refund.
| |
|
| |
| <big>Post shutdown obligations</big>
| |
|
| |
| On the date of the shutdown, the publisher would be requires to provide one of the following:
| |
| * A version of the game playable without operator-controlled services.
| |
| * A patch or update for continued independent use without the operator.
| |
| * A full refund equal to the game's purchase price.
| |
| * The operator is prohibited from continuing to distribute versions of the game that cannot function independently.
| |
|
| |
| <big>Exceptions</big>
| |
|
| |
| The legislation would not apply to:
| |
| * Subscription based games where your game access has a clearly defined expiring date tied to your subscription period.
| |
| * Free to play games without monetary involvements.
| |
| * Games that are permanently downloadable for offline use and without revocable access.
| |
|
| |
| <big>Votes</big>
| |
|
| |
| On 14 May 2026 the bill passed with 11 Ayes, 2 Nays and 2 Absent votes.
| |
|
| |
|
| ===Industry push back=== | | ===Industry push back=== |