LectureMaster
Or is it just one of Adam's balls in my throat?
Microsoft has started to make it clear that users acquire a license to use digital games, not the games themselves. A new disclaimer appeared on the page. Silent Hill in the Xbox store, which sparked discussion among players. It is now explicitly stated that purchasing any digital product is not property, but the right to use, which can be revoked.
This change, according to users, is related to a California law that came into effect in 2024. The law requires platforms to explicitly state that they provide access under license, rather than selling digital products in the traditional sense. The law also prohibits the use of the words "buy" and "acquire" without further clarification.
Although the requirement formally concerns California, Xbox decided distribute the disclaimer throughout the store. But this doesn't solve the main problem: DRM-protected games may become unavailable at any time, if the publisher shuts down the servers or removes the game. This is especially true for subscribers. Game Pass, where the list of available games is updated regularly, and notifications about deletions are given only a couple of weeks in advance.
Last edited:
