New York rep announces game ownership bill that would require consumer ownership rather than sale of licenses — would also require publishers to keep the game functional after support ends
Summary
New York Rep. Ritchie Torres introduced the Power To The Players Act, directing the FTC to regulate game ownership so consumers own digital purchases rather than just licenses. The bill would require offline modes before server shut downs and ongoing functionality, with examples like The Crew and NBA 2K25 cited to illustrate revocable licenses. The piece also notes opposition from Sony and discusses defining ownership rights and enforcement.