California bill would force game studios to patch or refund dead online games

A California bill requiring game companies to release offline patches or issue refunds when shutting down online games has passed a key legislative hurdle [Ars Technica]. The measure targets studios that terminate online services without offering continued access or financial recourse to players.

The bill mandates that any company discontinuing an online game must either release a patch enabling full offline play or provide a refund to all purchasers. Refund eligibility would extend to all players who bought the game within five years of shutdown, regardless of playtime. No U.S. state currently imposes such requirements on game publishers.

This legislation follows the shutdown of titles like Anthem and Battlefield Heroes, where players lost access despite ongoing ownership claims. California lawmakers argue that digital purchases should carry enforceable rights, not just licenses subject to revocation [Ars Technica].

If signed into law, the rule would apply to any game sold in California with online-only functionality. That could force publishers like EA, Activision, and Riot to alter end-of-life practices for titles such as Apex Legends, Overwatch, and League of Legends.

The bill’s backers say it stops companies from profiting indefinitely from games they no longer support. Critics warn it could push studios to avoid online features altogether or limit service lifespans to avoid liability.