Digital Rights
Ongoing coverage on Digital Rights.
Latest coverage
Latest GTA 6 leaks see Cyberleek threaten Rockstar with Lucia story spoilers – and closely examine naked NPCs
A group known as Cyberleek is threatening to release major story spoilers for Grand Theft Auto 6, including a potential prologue focused on the character Lucia. The group has also been leaking gameplay footage, including a recent clip featuring nude NPCs and a violent encounter. Cyberleek is demanding action from Rockstar Games and Take-Two Interactive regarding their stance on digital rights and game preservation.
Apparent GTA 6 leak smells of crypto scam, links to a manifesto demanding digital rights: "This is not a cash…
An apparent Grand Theft Auto 6 gameplay and map leak is being used by a group called Cyberleek to promote a cryptocurrency coin, despite claims it is not a cash grab. The group also published a manifesto demanding an end to digital pre-orders, baked-in DLC, and advocating for offline single-player content. Take-Two Interactive has begun issuing DMCA takedowns in response to the leak.
One Lord of the Rings fan is fighting back after Google removed the extended edition from their digital library
A fan reported that Google Play removed the extended edition trilogy of The Lord of the Rings from their digital library, despite the user having purchased it. Google initially refused a refund, citing policy, but later offered a partial credit and links to the films, though some remain inaccessible. This incident highlights concerns about digital ownership and the reliability of digital libraries compared to physical media.
Sony killing physical PlayStation games is "the latest attack on our diminishing rights," leading digital rights group says: "The end goal is to turn the customer into a renter"
The Electronic Frontier Foundation has criticized Sony's decision to end physical game sales on PlayStation in 2028, calling it an "attack on our diminishing rights" and a move towards customers becoming renters. EFF director Rory Mir highlighted the trend seen in other media industries, warning that the ultimate goal is to shift consumers to subscription-based access, limiting true ownership.
Xbox gamer wins lawsuit against Microsoft to restore account and digital library
An Xbox gamer has won a lawsuit against Microsoft, resulting in the restoration of their account and digital game library. Microsoft has also been ordered to pay approximately $400 in damages to the user.
Games Inbox: Which is worse out of Xbox and PlayStation?
Readers debate whether Microsoft's Xbox or Sony's PlayStation is worse, criticizing both for customer-unfriendly practices like microtransactions and the move away from physical media. Concerns are raised about EA's continued push for in-game purchases and the potential impact of digital-only games on preservation and long-term access.
As PlayStation kills discs, former Blizzard boss says "we can't live in a world of fear if our games will work…
Former Blizzard president Mike Ybarra has expressed concerns regarding Sony Interactive Entertainment's move towards an all-digital, disc-less future for PlayStation consoles, starting in January 2028. He urges platform holders to establish clear digital promises for consumers, ensure game accessibility in the long term, and innovate game sharing features to match the ease of physical disc lending.
'This Policy Doesn't Reflect How Games Actually Work Today': Stop Killing Games Gets Big Win, But the Fight Is Far from Over
The consumer movement Stop Killing Games has achieved a significant victory as the California State Assembly passed the 'Protect Our Games' act, which aims to prevent publishers from permanently disabling games by shutting down servers. The bill proposes requiring publishers to provide advance notice of server closures and ensure playable single-player modes indefinitely for commercially available titles. However, the Entertainment Software Association argues the proposal is not feasible and could hinder the development of new games and technology.
Subnautica 2's EULA is causing a bit of a ruckus, but Unknown Worlds say they're "looking into" the current terms
Subnautica 2's End User License Agreement has sparked controversy due to clauses restricting VPN use, potential ownership claims on fan-made content by publisher Krafton, and individual arbitration requirements. Unknown Worlds has stated they are reviewing the EULA following player concerns, assuring players that actions will not be taken against streaming, Linux use via Proton, or modding as long as rules are followed.
'Bambu Labs, go f*** yourself': 3D printing company currently under fire for reportedly blocking 3rd parties from its software, legal threats and drama aplenty
3D printing company Bambu Lab is facing backlash for reportedly blocking third-party software and issuing legal threats. A controversy erupted after an update made their printers less user-friendly, leading to the development of an open-source alternative, OrcaSlicer. Bambu Lab reportedly sent a cease and desist letter to the OrcaSlicer developer, sparking a digital rights debate with support from YouTubers and publications like Gamers Nexus.
Industry lobbyists ridicule "false premise" that "consumers 'own' digital games" amid Stop…
The Entertainment Software Association (ESA) is lobbying against California's proposed "Protect Our Games Act" (AB-1921), arguing that consumers do not "own" digital games but rather license them. The bill would require publishers to keep games playable or offer refunds when they shut down, a move the ESA claims is based on a "false premise."
The video games industry wants to keep killing games, actually
The 'Stop Killing Games' initiative is advocating for legislation like California's AB 1921, the Protect Our Games Act, to prevent video games from becoming unplayable when online services are shut down. The Entertainment Software Association is lobbying against the bill, arguing that games are licensed, not owned, and that server maintenance is complex. The initiative counters that the proposed law offers companies options like patching games for offline play or issuing refunds, rather than demanding perpetual server support.
Saturday Metaverse
The Chinese Government has reportedly caused the cancellation of the world's largest digital rights conference. The specific reasons for the cancellation were not immediately clear, but the event was set to be a significant gathering for discussions on digital rights.
Russian Censorship Sim ‘Носковраздор’ Lets You Block Digital Services
The new PC game 'Носковраздор' simulates the role of a network operator tasked with blocking digital services and restricting internet access, drawing controversy for its premise. Developed by a Russian team, the game explores themes of censorship and digital policy, prompting discussions about government overreach and digital freedom. Its simulation mechanics focus on administrative control and strategic restriction, leaving ethical interpretations to the player.
