Rep. Ritchie Torres introduced legislation that would compel companies to grant true ownership of purchased video games, mandating offline play options or compensation when online servers shut down.
- Guarantees ownership instead of licensing for purchased games
- Requires offline play options or compensation if servers close
- Targets industry trends limiting resale and permanent access
What happened
Representative Ritchie Torres of New York introduced the Power To The Players Act to Congress, proposing new consumer protections in the digital gaming market. The bill would instruct the Federal Trade Commission to establish regulations that guarantee consumers ownership rights for games they purchase, moving away from the current licensing model.
This legislation comes in response to video games increasingly requiring an online connection, making them unplayable once companies shut down supporting servers. Recent examples, such as NBA 2K25’s removal from stores and server shutdown at the end of 2026, have reignited concerns over loss of access and ownership.
Why it matters
Digital distribution and multiplayer functions often tie games to company-controlled servers, limiting players' ability to fully own, resell, or continue enjoying games indefinitely. Without offline play modes or compensation, consumers risk losing the value of their purchases abruptly.
The bill’s requirement for an offline mode before server shutdown represents a significant shift in protecting consumer rights. It aligns with the growing debate around future gaming models, especially after announcements like Sony’s 2028 phaseout of physical discs, highlighting the need for clear ownership standards.
What to watch next
Attention will focus on how the Federal Trade Commission responds if the bill passes and the specific regulations it develops for game ownership rights. Industry stakeholders, including developers and publishers, will likely weigh in on the feasibility and impact of mandated offline modes or compensation schemes.
The legislative push echoes similar efforts at the state level, such as Pennsylvania’s Protect Our Games Act, which also demands offline playability or refunds when servers are sunset. The outcome could establish a precedent for consumer protections across the US digital gaming landscape, influencing future policy and industry practices.