California's New Law Mandates Transparency in Digital Game Ownership
A new California law, AB 2426, aims to clarify the nature of digital game purchases, requiring online stores like Steam and Epic Games to explicitly state whether consumers are buying a license or outright ownership. The law, signed by Governor Gavin Newsom, takes effect next year and combats misleading advertising of digital goods.
The legislation defines "game" broadly, encompassing applications accessed via various electronic devices, including add-ons and DLC. Stores must use clear and conspicuous language, such as larger or contrasting font, to inform consumers of the license nature of their purchases. Failure to comply could result in civil penalties or misdemeanor charges.
The law prohibits using terms like "buy" or "purchase" to imply ownership unless explicitly clarified. Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin highlighted the need for consumer protection in the increasingly digital marketplace, emphasizing the difference between purchasing a license and owning a digital good outright.
The law's impact on subscription services like Game Pass remains unclear, as does its application to offline game copies. This ambiguity follows recent controversies where companies like Ubisoft have removed games from player access due to licensing issues, raising concerns about consumer rights.
Ubisoft's director of subscriptions, Philippe Tremblay, previously suggested a shift towards consumer acceptance of not technically "owning" games within subscription models. However, Assemblymember Irwin stressed the law's goal is to ensure consumers understand the nature of their digital purchases, drawing a parallel to the permanent access provided by physical media like DVDs and books.
This new legislation represents a significant step towards greater transparency and consumer protection within the digital gaming market, although certain aspects concerning subscription models and offline access require further clarification.
