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.

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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

https://www.pcgamer.com/gaming-industry/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

Welcome to the Consumer Corner section of STM Daily News, your ultimate destination for savvy shopping and informed decision-making! Dive into a treasure trove of insights and reviews covering everything from the hottest toys that spark joy in your little ones to the latest electronic gadgets that simplify your life. Explore our comprehensive guides on stylish home furnishings, discover smart tips for buying a home or enhancing your living space with creative improvement ideas, and get the lowdown on the best cars through our detailed auto reviews. Whether you’re making a major purchase or simply seeking inspiration, the Consumer Corner is here to empower you every step of the way—unlock the keys to becoming a smarter consumer today!

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LOS ANGELES, Sept. 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Derm favorite brand COSRX is gearing up for a major shopping event with the launch of Prime Big Deal Days 2024, exclusively on Amazon. Running from October 8th to 9th, this highly anticipated sale will see up to 55% off on all COSRX products offering skincare lovers the opportunity to enjoy deep discounts on some of the most popular and TikTok-viral products, including the best-selling COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence and The 6 Peptide Skin Booster Serum.

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Niacinamide 15% Peptide Booster Set

COSRX, the trusted go-to skincare brand renowned for its clean, effective, and dermatologist-approved products, is excited to unveil its latest innovation, the Niacinamide 15% Peptide Booster Set, a powerhouse duo designed to transform dull, textured skin into a radiant, mirror-like complexion.

This new set includes The 6 Peptide Skin Booster Serum and The Niacinamide 15 Serum, a dynamic combination that addresses multiple skin concerns, from hydration and smoothness to acne prevention and treatment.

The 6 Peptide Skin Booster Serum functions as both a toner and serum, infused with six peptides that target a range of skin issues, including hydration, firmness, and texture refinement. Dermatologist-tested for sensitive skin, this lightweight, fast-absorbing formula is ideal for daily use and works seamlessly with other skincare products to enhance results, making it a must-have addition to any skincare routine. Its jumbo size also ensures lasting value, with just a small amount delivering powerful benefits.

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For more information on the Prime Big Deal Days sale and COSRX’s product range, visit the COSRX Amazon store starting October 8, 2024.

About COSRX:

K-beauty brand offering powerful yet affordable skincare solutions, COSRX has quickly become one of America’s favorite skincare brands. Using a minimal number of highly effective natural extracts in concentrated doses, COSRX products deliver visible results by treating the skin with only the essentials it needs and nothing it doesn’t. Find its best-selling skincare solutions at retailers nationwide, including https://www.cosrx.com, Amazon, ULTA, Revolve, Dermstore, Nordstrom and Target.

COSRX is also on Instagram + TikTok.

SOURCE COSRX

Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.

I’m excited to share a sneak peek into the latest episode of People of Pickleball! In this episode, I had the incredible opportunity to sit down with David Welles, a passionate member of JBB United from the National Pickleball League and an influential figure in the Chicago Pickleball League. If you’re even a casual pickleball enthusiast, you’ll definitely want to tune in!

David Welles

David and I dove deep into his journey as a competitive player, and it was inspiring to hear his stories. We talked about the various challenges and victories he’s faced on the court, and how the tight-knit community of pickleball has played a vital role in his growth as an athlete. One thing that stood out to me was his unwavering passion for the game—not just for competition but for the joy it brings to everyone involved.

But that’s not all! David also shared insights about his innovative product, the Yobow massager. In our conversation, he explained how it’s designed to help players recover and maintain peak performance. Whether you’re training hard or just enjoying a casual game, understanding the importance of recovery is something every player should consider. David’s enthusiasm for the Yobow and its impact on athletes is contagious, and I can’t wait for you to hear all about it.

While I won’t give away any spoilers, I can promise that our discussion is filled with valuable tips, personal anecdotes, and plenty of laughs. It’s a refreshing reminder of why we love pickleball and the bonds we create along the way.

So, mark your calendars and get ready to join us for this enlightening chat. I truly believe it will stir your excitement for the game and maybe even inspire you to incorporate some new recovery techniques into your routine.

Thank you for being part of this journey with me. I can’t wait for you all to listen to the episode with David Welles—it’s going to be a good one!

Keep paddling and see you on the court!

Best,

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Michael “Sleeves” Sliwa

David Welles

Yobow

https://theyobow.com

IG:@davidwellesone

Naples JBB United

https://www.nplpickleball.com/naples-jbb-united

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National Pickleball League (NPL)

https://www.nplpickleball.com

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Get the latest updates and information on the rapidly growing sport of pickleball, specifically designed for the senior community aged 50+. Check out Sleeve’s Senior Pickleball Report on YouTube to stay informed and up-to-date with the ever-changing world of pickleball. Join the community and stay ahead of the game. https://stmdailynews.com/sleeves-senior-pickleball-report/

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