Ubisoft users are facing an unsettling situation as the company recently revealed that inactive accounts could be permanently deleted, resulting in the loss of access to their games library. Reports emerged when a Twitter account focused on piracy and anti-DRM shared a screenshot of an email from Ubisoft support informing a user about their suspended account due to inactivity, with a warning that it would be closed permanently within 30 days. Initially, many considered it a phishing scam, but Ubisoft’s verified support account later confirmed the authenticity of the email.
Although no specific timeframe for inactivity-triggered account suspension has been officially disclosed, Ubisoft does reserve the right to suspend or terminate services at any time. On its support page titled “Closure of inactive Ubisoft accounts,” the company explains that long-term inactive accounts may be closed for database maintenance reasons. Users are notified by email if their inactive account is in danger of closure. The account closure process includes a 30-day suspension period before the account is permanently deleted.
While some may argue that this practice is necessary for database maintenance, critics find it customer-unfriendly and burdensome for gamers. Many other digital distribution platforms, which have been around longer and boast a larger user base, do not follow such stringent measures.
Ubisoft Connect and Ubisoft accounts have been a contentious topic among gamers. Many would prefer not to use these publisher-exclusive launchers and digital storefronts primarily designed for digital rights management. Instead, they gravitate towards platforms like Steam, which offers more flexibility and convenience.
The issue of proprietary platforms has broader implications for game preservation and ownership. The prevalence of exclusive launchers has caused concerns about the preservation of gaming history, as some games have been lost or are difficult to access due to discontinued online components or closed platforms.
Ultimately, gamers wish for digital game ownership to feel more secure, akin to physical ownership. The possibility of losing access to an extensive digital library due to inactivity is worrisome and feels like a risky investment. Ubisoft’s online service problems extend beyond its own launcher, as they have faced criticism for discontinuing online components of older games, impacting downloadable content even on platforms like Steam.
This situation raises valid consumer concerns, and the consequences of ephemeral digital libraries could lead to a rise in unplayable games without resorting to piracy or accessing archives. Gamers are calling for more transparent and customer-centric practices from game publishers to ensure a better gaming experience and enhanced digital ownership security.
