Congress Introduces Bill to Secure Consumer Game Ownership
Congressional bill seeks FTC rules to guarantee gamers own purchased titles, ending license‑only agreements.
Tech
Representative Ritchie Torres, a Democrat from New York's 15th district, introduced the Power To The Players Act in the House this week. The proposal would task the Federal Trade Commission with creating rules that ensure gamers own the titles they purchase, rather than merely holding a limited license.
Under the bill, the FTC would define clear standards for what constitutes ownership in digital game sales, addressing the growing practice of treating purchases as revocable licenses. Proponents argue that the measure would give consumers clearer rights and protect them from sudden loss of access to games they have paid for.
If enacted, the legislation could reshape how publishers structure digital storefronts and subscription services, potentially prompting industry-wide adjustments to licensing language and consumer contracts.
Why It Matters
Clarifying digital ownership would affect millions of gamers in the US and Europe, influencing how they buy and retain access to video games.
