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Ubisoft Revokes License for The Crew

Angering Fans and Highlighting Fragility of Digital Ownership
by Joe Wilcock on April 12, 2024   



Ubisoft has revoked the license for its popular open-world multiplayer racer, The Crew, leaving fans frustrated and highlighting the precarious nature of digital ownership.

The Crew, which was removed from sale in December with servers scheduled for shutdown in April, was known for its online-only gameplay. However, Ubisoft’s recent decision to not only shut down servers but also revoke licenses has left many players unable to access the game, even in single-player mode.

Upon discovering the license revocation, fans took to platforms like Reddit to express their disappointment and frustration. Comments ranged from calling the decision “the saddest and most ruthless in gaming history” to labeling it “abhorrent behavior that needs to stop being legal.”

The situation has also raised questions about consumer rights and the need for better protection when it comes to digital purchases. Some users have suggested that buyers should be entitled to refunds in such cases, while others have criticized Ubisoft for not allowing the game to remain accessible for download, even if it’s no longer playable.
 


Despite the setback, some fans are determined to keep The Crew alive. Projects like The Crew Unlimited Discord server’s “The Crew Offline+Online Server Emulation” aim to restore the game to a playable state without resorting to piracy. However, challenges remain due to the game’s high level of DRM (Digital Rights Management) implemented by Ubisoft.

ChemicalFlood, a member of the project, expressed disappointment in Ubisoft’s decision but remained optimistic about the project’s progress. He highlighted the community’s dedication to preserving the game for future generations, despite the hurdles posed by the publisher.

Speaking to PC Gamer, he had this to say:
 

"We are deeply saddened by Ubisoft's choice to start revoking licences to this game when people have paid hard-earned cash for it," he told me. "In regard to the project, yes! We are currently working on a Server Emulator as opposed to cracking the game. Before the shutdown of the servers, we took the precaution of capturing Network Communications Data. Had we not done this, the project would [have] sadly fallen over and this game would [have] been lost forever.

Thankfully, a server emulation is still possible. But no other patch is possible due to the high amount of DRM placed into the game by Ubisoft, which sadly has restricted our ability to work on a fix, but not impossible!"

- Chemical Flood


See here for the full interview. 

While Ubisoft has yet to comment on the situation, speculation suggests that licensing issues, particularly with regards to the game’s soundtrack and real-world car manufacturers, may have played a role in the decision to revoke licenses rather than simply delist the game.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of digital ownership and the challenges faced by both developers and consumers in preserving gaming experiences. As physical media continues to decline, the importance of preservation efforts becomes increasingly evident.
 


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