Congressman Introduces Bill to Ensure Ownership of Video Games Purchased

U.S. Representative Ritchie Torres (D-NY) has announced plans to introduce a new bill aimed at enhancing video game ownership rights. In light of the announcement that NBA 2K25, a game that millions invested $70 in, will soon be delisted from digital stores and have its online servers shut down by January 1, 2027, Torres argues for a significant change. He stated, ‘If you pay for it, you own it,’ highlighting the need to prevent the current model, which he describes as ‘a rental disguised as a sale.’

The proposed legislation, known as the Power To The Players Act, would require the Federal Trade Commission to create regulations that ensure players receive full ownership rights for digital games. The bill would also mandate that games with online functionalities provide offline modes that remain operational after servers go offline. However, Torres has not confirmed if the bill will have cosponsors or bipartisan support. The importance of this legislation may become evident when Grand Theft Auto 6 launches, which will be available solely as a download code, diminishing consumer control over the $80 purchase.