report

Game preservation expert says stop killing games if you don't want piracy, because companies like PlayStation and Rockst

2026-07-05 · Source: press

A game preservation expert has criticized Rockstar Games and PlayStation for removing titles without providing legal alternatives, arguing that such actions inadvertently drive players toward piracy. The expert told GamesRadar+ that companies “refuse to offer a meaningful alternative” when delisting or deactivating games, leaving fans with no choice but to seek unauthorized copies. This includes cases where games are made unavailable on platforms or lose online features, a practice the expert links to rising piracy rates. The statement comes amid ongoing debates about game preservation and player access, with critics urging developers and platforms to prioritize long-term accessibility. For GTA 6 players anticipating the Nov 19, 2026, launch, the warning highlights the risks of future availability gaps—ensuring legal access to Rockstar’s titles, including GTA 6, could become critical to avoiding piracy pitfalls.