gaming
A Cautionary Tale: California’s New Digital Ownership Law and the Future of Gaming
California’s new law (AB 2426) aims to clarify digital ownership by prohibiting terms like “buy” for digital goods without clear warnings, emphasizing that we license rather than own them. Gaming Community
Last Updated on September 30, 2024 by Rod Washington
Today, I want to dive into a topic that’s been buzzing around the gaming community since PC Gamer dropped the news about California’s new law (AB 2426) concerning digital ownership. As a lifelong gamer and someone who has always been a bit skeptical about the concept of “buying” digital games, this new legislation hits home for me.
Cautionary Tale for the Gaming Community
First, let’s break down what this law entails. Starting in 2025, retailers in California will be prohibited from using terms like “buy” or “purchase” when it comes to digital goods—think video games, movies, and e-books—unless they issue a clear warning that these products can be taken away at any moment. The law aims to clarify that “ownership” of digital items is not the same as owning a physical product.
Honestly, my first reaction to this was a mix of relief and frustration. Relief because, finally, someone is calling out the elephant in the room: when we buy digital games, we’re not truly buying them, are we? We’re essentially licensing them. Frustration, on the other hand, stems from the fact that it took this long for lawmakers to recognize this issue, especially after high-profile incidents involving companies like Sony and Ubisoft.
Let’s talk about the impetus for this law. It all started when Sony announced the removal of certain content from the PlayStation Store due to expiring licenses. Players who had “bought” these digital shows suddenly found themselves locked out of content they thought they owned. Sony eventually reversed its decision, but the damage was done, and Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin decided it was time to step in.
Then came Ubisoft’s decision to pull the plug on The Crew, a racing game that became unplayable when its online servers were taken offline. Imagine investing your time and money into a game only to find out that you can’t even play the single-player mode anymore. It’s a stark reminder of how fragile our digital ownership really is.
The law itself might be dense and legalistic, but the implications are clear. It’s about time we start viewing digital purchases with a more critical lens. Sure, you can still play your games as long as the servers are up, but once those go down, what happens? You’re left with a beautiful box art in your library, but it’s just an empty shell.
The requirement for sellers to provide a warning or seek an “affirmative acknowledgment” from buyers seems like a step in the right direction. Yet, it feels more like a band-aid solution rather than a comprehensive fix. The real kicker for me is the provision that allows for a “permanent offline download” option. That’s what we need! A way to ensure that even if the digital landscape shifts, our ability to play isn’t stripped away overnight.
As gamers, we’ve been conditioned to accept the “always-online” model, but should we? This law is a wake-up call that reminds us to demand more from the companies we support. If I’m paying for a game, I want the assurance that I can keep playing it, regardless of server availability.
In conclusion, while California’s new law is a significant step forward in recognizing the nuances of digital ownership, it also highlights the ongoing battle between consumers and corporations. As we move toward an increasingly digital future, it’s crucial that we stay informed and advocate for our rights as gamers. After all, we deserve to know what we’re really “buying” when we hit that purchase button.
What are your thoughts on this new law? Do you feel more empowered as a consumer, or are you still worried about the future of digital gaming? Let’s chat in the comments!
Happy gaming, and remember to always read the fine print!
PC Gamer Article: New California law inspired by Ubisoft and Sony requires retailers to warn consumers that the digital games they buy can be taken away at any time
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gaming
Dragon Shield Partners with Hasbro and Wizards of the Coast for Official MAGIC: THE GATHERING Accessories
Dragon Shield has partnered with Hasbro and Wizards of the Coast to create premium MAGIC: THE GATHERING accessories featuring iconic game art. Launching with the Legendary and Landfall Series, these sleeves blend durability with visual storytelling, marking a significant evolution for both brands.
Premium TCG accessory maker brings iconic Magic imagery to protective sleeves and gaming gear
Dragon Shield, the go-to name in trading card game protection, just leveled up. The Denmark-based company announced a major licensing deal with Hasbro and Wizards of the Coast to produce official MAGIC: THE GATHERING accessories, bringing decades of iconic game art to their premium product line.
For Magic players who’ve trusted Dragon Shield sleeves to protect their valuable cards, this collaboration means something special: official artwork featuring the legendary creatures and landscapes that define the game’s rich history.
Two New Series Honor Magic’s Legacy
The partnership launches with two distinct product lines that tap into what makes Magic legendary:
The Legendary Series kicks off with The Ur-Dragon, one of Magic’s most beloved legendary creatures. These Dual Matte Art sleeves celebrate the powerful characters that have captivated players since the game’s inception. It’s a fitting tribute to the timeless imagination that keeps millions shuffling up each week.
The Landfall Series takes inspiration from Magic’s foundation—literally. The debut features all five Tarkir: Dragonstorm fetch lands in their showcase forms. For players who know that lands aren’t just mana sources but works of art in their own right, this series delivers both beauty and gameplay significance.
When and Where to Get Them
Magic fans attending MagicCon: Atlanta will get first access to these new products, including an exclusive “Dracogenesis” sleeve featuring artwork from the Tarkir Dragonstorm set—chosen specifically to symbolize this new partnership.
Worldwide retail availability is set for late 2025, giving players everywhere the chance to sleeve up with official Magic artwork.
What the Partnership Means
“Working with Hasbro and Wizards of the Coast marks an exciting new chapter for Dragon Shield,” said Kevin Isaacson, Dragon Shield’s CEO. “MAGIC: THE GATHERING has inspired players for decades, and this collaboration allows us to bring our passion for quality and design to a game and community we deeply admire.”
Rebecca Shepard, Vice President of Franchise for MAGIC: THE GATHERING at Wizards of the Coast, emphasized the natural fit: “Dragon Shield is a trusted name among fans, and this collaboration ensures players can protect the game they love with accessories that celebrate the stories, legends, and artistry that make MAGIC legendary.”
Why This Matters for Players
Dragon Shield has built its reputation on durability and design—sleeves that actually last through countless shuffles and gameplay sessions. Now that quality meets official Magic artwork, from the most iconic legendary creatures to the lands that fuel every strategy.
Whether you’re protecting a Commander deck built around The Ur-Dragon or keeping your fetch lands pristine, these new accessories blend practical protection with the visual storytelling that makes Magic more than just a card game.
For the millions of Magic players worldwide, this partnership represents something simple but significant: the accessories that protect your cards can now reflect the game’s legendary status.
Learn more at dragonshield.com or follow the latest updates on Instagram.
What’s your take on the new Dragon Shield × Magic collaboration? Will you be picking up The Ur-Dragon sleeves or waiting for the Landfall Series? The blend of premium protection and iconic Magic art seems like a natural evolution for both brands.
SOURCE Dragon Shield
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Tech
T-Mobile, MeetMo, and NantStudios Win Prestigious 2025 Lumiere Award for Revolutionary Las Vegas Grand Prix Formula One Fan Experience
Last Updated on February 13, 2025 by Daily News Staff
The world of motorsports just took a giant leap into the future! Excitement is in the air as T-Mobile, MeetMo, and NantStudios have clinched the illustrious 2025 Lumiere Award for Best Interactive Experience from the Advanced Imaging Society. This accolade is in recognition of their pioneering immersive video experience for fans at the celebrated Las Vegas Grand Prix!
A Game-Changing Experience
Imagine being able to step into a race track from the comfort of your own home, enveloped in a 360-degree augmented reality tour of the circuit, all captured in breathtaking 12K footage. Thanks to this remarkable collaboration, fans can now enjoy a race experience like never before, made possible by a spectacular fusion of 5G technology, virtual production, and artificial intelligence.
“By combining T-Mobile’s 5G Advanced Network Solutions with our real-time collaboration technology, we’ve created an immersive experience that brings fans closer to the action than ever before,” expressed Michael Mansouri, CEO of Radiant Images and MeetMo. His enthusiasm is shared by many, as this innovative project is seen as a quantum leap forward in the way motorsports are experienced.
The Technical Marvel Behind the Magic
Highlighting their technological finesse, the project transformed over 1.5TB of data into a stunningly interactive experience in mere hours—a feat that previously would have taken months. The journey began at the NantStudios headquarters in Los Angeles, where more than 10 minutes of ultra-high definition, immersive sequences were blended with telemetry and driver animation data captured tirelessly by Radiant Images’ crews in Las Vegas.
The astounding speed and efficiency were primarily powered by T-Mobile’s robust 5G infrastructure, allowing for rapid data transfers back and forth, ensuring seamless integration into the interactive app that fans could access. Chris Melus, VP of Product Management for T-Mobile’s Business Group, proudly remarked, “This collaboration broke new ground for immersive fan engagement.”
The Power of 5G
The integration of T-Mobile’s advanced network solutions turned the Las Vegas Grand Prix into a case study of innovation. With real-time capture and transmission capabilities utilizing Radiant Images’ cutting-edge 360° 12K camera car, production crews were able to capture immersive video feeds and transmit them instantaneously over the 5G network. This meant remote camera control and instant footage reviews, drastically cutting production time and resources.
Moreover, the seamless AR integration—thanks to the creative minds at NantStudios and their work with Unreal Engine—allowed the blending of virtual and real-world elements. Fans were treated to augmented reality overlays displaying real-time data, such as dashboard metrics and telemetry, all transmitted through the reliable 5G network.
Future of Fan Engagement
As Jim Chabin, President of the Advanced Imaging Society, eloquently noted, the remarkable work at the Las Vegas Grand Prix has set new standards for interactive sports entertainment. The recognition given to this innovative team underscores their commitment to pushing the envelope in immersive experiences.
Gary Marshall, Vice President of Virtual Production at NantStudios, also highlighted the project’s importance: “This recognition underscores NantStudios’ legacy of pioneering real-time VFX and virtual production achievements, reaffirming our position as a leader in modern virtual production.”
The 2025 Lumiere Award is not just a trophy; it symbolizes the melding of creativity and technology in a way that elevates the fan experience to new heights. The collaboration between T-Mobile, MeetMo, and NantStudios exemplifies a thrilling future where motorsports become more accessible, engaging, and immersive. It’s a thrilling time to be a fan, and the development teams behind this innovation have truly set a new standard for content creators everywhere.
With such defining moments in sports entertainment, we can’t help but wonder what spectacular innovations lie ahead. Buckle up; it’s going to be a wild ride!
About the Companies
MeetMo
MeetMo.io is revolutionizing how creative professionals collaborate by combining video conferencing, live streaming, and AI automation into a single, intuitive platform. With persistent virtual meeting rooms that adapt to users over time, our platform evolves into a true collaborative partner, enhancing creativity and productivity. For more information please visit: https://www.meetmo.io
Radiant Images
Radiant Images is a globally acclaimed, award-winning technology provider specializing in innovative tools and solutions for the media and entertainment industries. The company focuses on advancing cinema, immersive media, and live production. https://www.radiantimages.com
T-Mobile
T-Mobile US, Inc.(NASDAQ: TMUS) is America’s supercharged Un-carrier, delivering an advanced 4G LTE and transformative nationwide 5G network that will offer reliable connectivity for all. T-Mobile’s customers benefit from its unmatched combination of value and quality, unwavering obsession with offering them the best possible service experience and indisputable drive for disruption that creates competition and innovation in wireless and beyond. Based in Bellevue, Wash., T-Mobile provides services through its subsidiaries and operates its flagship brands, T-Mobile, Metro by T-Mobile and Mint Mobile. For more information please visit: https://www.t-mobile.com
NantStudios
NantStudios is the first real time-native, full-service production house; re-imagined from the ground up to deliver exceptional creative results through next generation technologies like Virtual Production. For more information please visit: https://nantstudios.com
SOURCE MeetMo
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Community
Blizzard Entertainment Raises Over $2 Million for CureDuchenne: A Tribute to Community and Legacy
Blizzard Entertainment and World of Warcraft players raised over $2 million for CureDuchenne, honoring Mats Steen, a devoted player lost to Duchenne muscular dystrophy, while promoting awareness and community support.
In a remarkable display of unity and compassion, Blizzard Entertainment® and the gaming community of World of Warcraft® have come together to raise over $2 million for CureDuchenne, a nonprofit dedicated to finding a cure for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). Inspired by the poignant documentary “The Remarkable Life of Ibelin,” the initiative has touched hearts and changed lives, honoring the legacy of the late Mats Steen, a devoted player known as Ibelin.
Honoring Mats Steen’s Legacy
Mats Steen, a young man from Norway, was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy at a young age, a condition that steals muscle strength, leading to severe physical limitations and, tragically, premature death. Mats lost his life at just 25, but his journey didn’t end there; his story is one of connection, joy, and community. Through World of Warcraft, Mats discovered a vibrant world filled with friendships and adventures that transcended his physical challenges.
His family, upon his passing, uncovered the wealth of community and connection that the game provided him—a life filled with support and laughter that they had never fully appreciated. In remembrance of Mats, players worldwide adopted a limited-edition in-game pet, a fox named Reven, with all proceeds supporting the critical work of CureDuchenne.
The Impact of the Fundraising Campaign
The response from the gaming community has been nothing short of extraordinary. The opportunity to adopt Reven provided players a chance to honor Mats’ legacy while contributing to a noble cause. The campaign not only garnered significant financial support—$2 million to date—but also raised awareness about Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a condition that affects around 300,000 individuals globally.
According to Debra Miller, Founder and CEO of CureDuchenne, this partnership has been a breakthrough. “Not only has it raised critical funds for research,” she said, “but it has also generated awareness for Duchenne muscular dystrophy. The World of Warcraft community has demonstrated that gaming can be a powerful force for good.”
A Community United
The success of this fundraising initiative emphasizes the strength of the community and the impact that gaming can have in addressing real-world issues. The World of Warcraft community rallied together, showcasing the power of connection and shared purpose. The campaign reached across borders and time zones, allowing players from diverse backgrounds to unite in support of a common cause.
Holly Longdale, Executive Producer of World of Warcraft, expressed gratitude for the community’s generosity. “Your kindness helps enable the incredible work of CureDuchenne and honors the deeply impactful life of Mats Steen. We invite everyone to continue supporting CureDuchenne and to carry on Ibelin’s legacy with compassion and joy.”
The Future of Duchenne Research
The funds raised are critical for advancing research efforts aimed at finding treatments and improving care for those living with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. CureDuchenne is committed to accelerating research initiatives and to supporting families affected by this progressive disease. Their work includes funding early-stage scientific research, enhancing patient care, and providing educational resources to families.
CureDuchenne’s mission is clear: to bring treatments to everyone affected by this relentless disease, regardless of their financial status or geographical location. As the organization continues its vital work, the funding from the Blizzard partnership will play a crucial role in driving groundbreaking research forward.
The collaboration between Blizzard Entertainment and the World of Warcraft community serves as a shining example of how gaming can transcend entertainment to become a force for social good. The $2 million raised for CureDuchenne is more than a financial contribution; it symbolizes a tribute to personal legacy and a community united by purpose.
As we remember Mats Steen and cherish the friendships forged in virtual worlds, let us continue to advocate for those living with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Together, we can harness the power of community and gaming to drive change, support vital research, and ultimately, help find a cure. If this campaign inspires you, consider supporting CureDuchenne or participating in similar initiatives within the gaming community to make a difference. For more information on how to contribute, visit CureDuchenne.
About Blizzard Entertainment, Inc.
Best known for iconic video game universes including Warcraft®, Overwatch®, Diablo®, and StarCraft®, Blizzard Entertainment, Inc. (www.blizzard.com), a division of Activision Blizzard, which Microsoft acquired (NASDAQ: MSFT), is a premier developer and publisher of entertainment experiences. Blizzard Entertainment has created some of the industry’s most critically acclaimed and genre-defining games over the last 30 years, with a track record that includes multiple Game of the Year awards. Blizzard Entertainment engages tens of millions of players around the world with titles available on PC via Battle.net®, Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, iOS, and Android.
SOURCE CureDuchenne
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