California legislators are moving forward with a bill aimed at safeguarding access to online games for future players and researchers. The proposed legislation addresses concerns over the loss of access to digital games due to server shutdowns, licensing changes, or corporate decisions.
The bill is being developed with guidance from Stop Killing Games, a nonprofit organization dedicated to game preservation. The group has been instrumental in advocating for policies that protect digital cultural heritage, including video games.
According to a statement from Stop Killing Games, the bill seeks to establish legal frameworks that prevent the permanent loss of online game access. This includes provisions for archiving game servers, ensuring compatibility with future platforms, and maintaining licensing agreements that allow continued playability.
The legislation is part of a broader effort to preserve digital media, which has gained traction in recent years as classic games face obsolescence due to technological advancements and shifting industry priorities.
Stop Killing Games has not yet released the full text of the bill but has confirmed its involvement in the drafting process. The organization has previously worked on similar initiatives in other states and at the federal level.
Lawmakers in California are expected to introduce the bill in the upcoming legislative session. If passed, it could set a precedent for other states grappling with the challenges of digital preservation.
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