The recent reports of The Crew being effectively removed from some users’ Ubisoft Connect accounts have sparked frustration and disappointment among players. This situation highlights a significant issue with online-only games and the digital distribution of games in general.
The Crew’s online-only nature, coupled with Ubisoft’s decision to shut down its servers and delist the game from online storefronts, has left many feeling shortchanged. Players who purchased the game, expecting to be able to access it whenever they wanted, now find themselves unable to do so. The lack of warning from Ubisoft about the removal of the game from users’ libraries only adds to the frustration.
While Ubisoft did offer refunds for recent purchases of The Crew, this gesture did not extend to players who had owned the game for years. This has led to accusations of theft and renewed discussions about the risks of buying digital goods. Some players have even explored the possibility of setting up private servers to continue enjoying the game, only to find that their access has been completely revoked.
Interestingly, there have been reports of players successfully obtaining refunds for The Crew from platforms like the PlayStation Store, even years after their initial purchase. However, this avenue may not be viable for most players, and it does not address the broader issue of the game disappearing from Ubisoft Connect libraries.
The situation with The Crew is reminiscent of other instances where beloved games have become permanently inaccessible due to server shutdowns. The loss of multiplayer features in several Assassin’s Creed games and the shutdown of classic Halo game servers in 2022 serve as poignant reminders of the impermanence of online gaming experiences. However, in those cases, the games themselves were not removed from players’ libraries without warning or consent, as has occurred with The Crew.
For fans still eager to explore the world of The Crew, there are alternatives like The Crew 2 and The Crew Motorfest. Both games offer expansive open-world racing experiences and have been well-received by players looking to immerse themselves in the franchise’s universe. Nevertheless, the removal of The Crew from players’ libraries serves as a cautionary tale about the risks associated with digital gaming and the importance of preserving access to purchased content.