Ubisoft Faces Backlash Over The Crew Server Shutdown, Fan Project Aims to Revive Game

What's Happening?

Ubisoft's decision to shut down the servers for its street racing game, The Crew, in 2024 has led to significant backlash from the gaming community. In response, a fan-made project called The Crew Unlimited is set to launch later this month, aiming to revive the game through a custom server emulator. The project, led by a team of dedicated fans, has reached a feature-complete stage and is preparing for release. Ubisoft's actions, including revoking game licenses, have sparked a lawsuit and a European Citizen's Initiative petition with over one million signatures. The Crew Unlimited project bypasses these restrictions without modifying game files, allowing players to access the game if they own it. The emulator currently supports PC versions, with potential future console support.

Why It's Important?

The backlash against Ubisoft highlights the growing frustration among gamers regarding the shutdown of online services for older games. This situation underscores the importance of preserving digital content and the rights of consumers who have purchased these games. The fan-led initiative to revive The Crew reflects a broader movement within the gaming community to resist the discontinuation of beloved games. Ubisoft's handling of the situation could impact its reputation and future business decisions, especially as it faces legal challenges and public criticism. The company's promise not to repeat such actions with other games like The Crew 2 and Motorfest indicates a shift in strategy to avoid further backlash.

What's Next?

The Crew Unlimited project is set to launch on September 15, providing players with an opportunity to revisit the game. Ubisoft's response to this fan initiative remains uncertain, as similar projects often attract legal attention. However, given the strong public reaction, Ubisoft may choose to avoid further controversy by allowing the project to proceed. The gaming community will be watching closely to see if Ubisoft takes any legal action or if it collaborates with the fan project. The outcome could influence how other companies handle server shutdowns and fan-led revivals in the future.