The Power to the Players Act

The proposed legislation, titled The Power to the Players Act, seeks to empower consumers by directing the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to create regulations that clarify ownership rights for digital games. The goal is to transition from a license-based system—where users are granted permission to play games that can be revoked—to true ownership.

Congressman Torres emphasizes that when consumers purchase a digital game, they should have complete ownership, akin to buying a physical copy. The bill further mandates that online multiplayer games must offer offline functionality, allowing gameplay even when servers are deactivated.

Consumer Rights and Digital Ownership

“Consumers must have the right to own, the right to play, and the right to transfer the games they buy,” Torres stated in a press release. “A game that can be taken away the moment a company pulls the plug is not a purchase. It is a rental disguised as a sale. Families in the Bronx and across the country save up to buy these games, and they deserve better than a license that can vanish at any time. The Power To The Players Act ensures consumers own what they buy and can keep playing long after a company moves on.”

Industry Context and Concerns

The introduction of this legislation comes at a time when significant shifts within the gaming industry have raised concerns among players. For instance, the recent announcement regarding NBA 2K25 highlighted that soon its single-player modes will be inaccessible due to server shutdowns, prompting confusion among consumers about the longevity of their purchases.

Further compounding these concerns, PlayStation has announced plans to phase out physical games by 2028. Such changes threaten to limit the ownership rights of gamers, particularly with upcoming titles like GTA 6 skipping physical releases entirely.

Advocacy for Gamer Rights

The legislation aligns with ongoing movements advocating for greater access to purchased games, even after official support ends. The Stop Killing Games initiative has been a vocal part of this struggle, pushing for rights that allow players continued access to their games regardless of server status.

While the path for The Power to the Players Act through Congress remains uncertain, its introduction highlights a significant effort to address digital ownership concerns within the gaming community.