UBISOFT FACES LAWSUIT OVER SHUTDOWN OF THE CREW

Ubisoft is facing a class action lawsuit from two gamers after shutting down the online functionality of its open-world racing game The Crew in March 2023. The plaintiffs, who purchased the game believing they owned it outright, argue that they were misled into thinking they had permanent access. The lawsuit highlights concerns about video game ownership, likening the situation to buying a pinball machine only to find it rendered unplayable. The Crew is now entirely unplayable, with no offline versions available, raising significant questions about consumer rights in the digital age. Ubisoft has yet to comment, and the lawsuit seeks damages for affected players while new California legislation aims to clarify the nature of digital media purchases.

The implications include potential changes in how digital games are marketed, clearer communications about ownership versus licensing, and possible legal repercussions for companies that restrict access to purchased content.

The Crew, released in 2014, is an open-world racing game that allows multiplayer experiences across vast landscapes. Its abrupt shutdown raises broader concerns about digital ownership and the responsibilities of game developers towards consumers. The game was part of a franchise that included sequels such as The Crew 2 and The Crew: Motorfest, which still function but highlight the tightrope developers walk between content access and platform lifecycles.