The UK government has decided not to amend current consumer laws to require video game publishers to support older versions of their games. This decision follows a petition from video game users who sought protection against game publishers discontinuing support for their products without ensuring that consumers could retain or repair their purchases.
iGaming and Consumer Rights in the UK
Though this decision by the UK Government primarily pertains to traditional video games, iGaming—the online gaming sector that involves betting and gambling—is also governed by similar consumer protections. iGaming platforms, like other digital content providers, must comply with the Consumer Rights Act and the CPUT Regulations, ensuring that players are not misled about game availability or the conditions under which games will operate.
In this sector, transparency is key, and players must be fully informed about the terms and conditions under which they play, including any potential changes in game functionality or availability. Creating a safe gaming environment, attractive bonuses, and a diverse selection of games is a priority for any online platform wishing to stay competitive and provide excellent service (source: parhaatnettikasinot.ltd).
iGaming platforms are often subject to more stringent regulations due to the financial stakes involved. This includes protecting consumers from unfair betting practices, ensuring fair play, and guaranteeing that winnings are paid out promptly. The continued evolution of consumer protection laws is particularly important in sectors like iGaming, where changes in regulations could have major implications for both operators and players.
Current Consumer Protection Laws for Video Games
The legal framework surrounding video games in the UK is primarily based on the Consumer Rights Act 2015 (CRA) and the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2018 (CPUT Regulations). These laws govern the sale and promotion of digital products like video games, aiming to ensure that consumers are not misled and that products meet certain quality standards.
Under the CRA, video game publishers must ensure that their products are of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose, and as described at the point of sale. There is no explicit requirement for publishers to support older versions of games once they have been released, leaving the decision up to the publisher’s discretion.
The Consumer Rights Act and Digital Content
The CRA outlines clear obligations for digital content publishers, including video games. Specifically, it stipulates that video games sold must meet expectations related to quality, purpose, and description. If a game is found to be faulty or unfit for purpose, consumers are entitled to a repair, replacement, or refund. This legal protection ensures that consumers aren’t stuck with a defective product, but it does not extend to ensuring continued support for outdated or retired versions of games.
Publishers are required to make clear whether or not a game will continue to be supported after release. If support is discontinued, this must be communicated transparently, particularly in the game’s terms and conditions. It’s important to note that these protections only apply to products sold directly to consumers, not necessarily to games provided as part of a service or subscription.
The Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations
The Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations (CPUT Regulations) prohibits misleading and unfair commercial practices. In relation to video games, these regulations ensure that consumers are not misled into thinking that a game will remain playable indefinitely, especially if the publisher discontinues support or removes access to content. If a game is marketed with the promise of indefinite support or continuous access, and the publisher fails to uphold that promise, the CPUT Regulations could come into play and there are plenty of new changes to UK consumer protection laws made.
The CPUT Regulations also mandate that terms of sale be transparent and unambiguous. If a consumer is led to believe a game will always be available or playable on a particular system, and this turns out to be untrue, the publisher could be in violation of these regulations. Enforcement of these rules falls under the remit of Trading Standards and the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA).
The Digital Markets, Competition, and Consumers Act
The Digital Markets, Competition, and Consumers Act 2024 (DMCC) is expected to introduce new rules in April 2025 that will affect the CPUT Regulations and could provide additional consumer protections in the video game industry. While the core of the CPUT Regulations will remain the same, the DMCC will empower the UK Secretary of State to regulate blacklisted commercial practices more rigorously.
Conclusion
The UK government’s decision not to amend existing consumer laws for video games leaves the status quo largely unchanged. However, the landscape of digital content consumer protection may evolve in the coming years, especially with the introduction of the DMCC.
Feature image by Dominika Gregušová on Pexels
