Owlcat Games Joins Stop Killing Games Movement for Player Access

Owlcat Games Joins the Fight for Game Preservation

Popular developer Owlcat Games, celebrated for critically acclaimed titles like Pathfinder: Kingmaker, Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader, and the upcoming The Expanse: Osiris Reborn, has officially announced its support for the "Stop Killing Games" movement.

This move highlights a growing industry concern about the longevity and accessibility of digital game purchases, reinforcing the importance of preserving video game history for future generations.

What is "Stop Killing Games"?

The "Stop Killing Games" initiative is a player-led movement advocating against the practice of making digital products, specifically video games, inaccessible after users have paid for them. This often happens when game servers are shut down, rendering online-only titles unplayable or limiting features in others.

The campaign aims to ensure that gamers retain permanent access to the titles they own, regardless of how long it has been since a game's release or if its original online services are discontinued.

Owlcat Games' Stance

In a public statement, Owlcat Games emphasized their core belief in player rights and game longevity:

"We are committed to delivering a great experience — no matter how long it’s been since a game’s release. We also believe every player deserves lasting access to the games they’ve paid for."

This statement aligns with their portfolio of largely single-player, narrative-driven RPGs, which intrinsically benefit from long-term playability without reliance on persistent online servers.

Growing Momentum and Industry Divide

Owlcat's support adds to the significant momentum the "Stop Killing Games" initiative has gained recently. A petition related to the movement has already garnered a massive number of signatures, highlighting widespread player discontent with digital game vanishing acts.

Furthermore, the campaign has attracted support from political figures, including Nicolae Ștefănuță, Vice-President of the European Parliament, signaling a broader recognition of the issue.

However, the initiative has also faced opposition, with several major publishers voicing concerns or rejecting its core tenets, indicating a clear divide within the gaming industry on this critical topic.

What This Means for Players

For players, Owlcat Games' public endorsement of "Stop Killing Games" is a positive sign. It demonstrates that some developers are committed to ensuring that the games we buy remain playable and accessible for years to come.

As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the push for game preservation and lasting player ownership becomes increasingly vital. Owlcat Games joining this movement helps amplify the voices of players and pushes the industry towards more sustainable practices for game longevity.