What happens when a game gets discontinued?
When a game is discontinued, two things can happen: it is delisted (removed from digital stores), and its online servers may be shut down. If you already own it, you can usually still download and play offline content from your library. Games that need servers to run, such as online-only shooters or MMOs, stop working entirely once the servers close.
Delisting
Delisting means a game can no longer be bought.
- What you keep: owners can usually still download it from their library on Steam, PlayStation, Xbox or other stores.
- What you lose: new purchases, often DLC sales, and sometimes the game's store page.
- Why it happens: expired licenses for music, cars, brands or sports leagues are a common reason, as are publisher business decisions.
Server shutdown
When servers close:
- Online multiplayer, matchmaking, leaderboards and online events stop.
- Games that require an online connection, even for solo play, may become unplayable.
- Progress stored only on the publisher's servers can be lost.
- Single-player games with offline modes keep working.
Shutdowns of games people had paid for have prompted consumer campaigns, such as the Stop Killing Games movement, which call for publishers to leave games in a playable state.
What players can do
- Download and back up games you own while they are still available.
- Prefer versions with offline modes or physical copies if long-term access matters to you.
- Follow official announcements; publishers usually give advance notice of shutdowns.
- Look for official re-releases or remasters later on.
Community preservation efforts, such as fan-run servers, sometimes keep games alive, but they are unofficial and their legal status varies.
FAQ
What happens to delisted games I already own?
In most cases they stay in your library and can still be downloaded and played.
Why was Forza Horizon 4 delisted?
Licensing agreements for cars and music in the game were expiring, which is a common reason racing games leave stores.
What makes a game "abandoned"?
A game is called abandoned when it stops getting updates or support, even if it is still sold or playable.
Why do old games still get updates?
Some developers keep fixing compatibility, security or balance issues for games with active players.