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Your digital game library is yours, until it’s not
2K will shut down the servers for NBA 2K25 on 31 December 2026, ending access to its MyCareer and MyTeam modes, including the single-player story. The case highlights how digital game purchases are generally licences governed by sellers’ terms, so a game’s features can disappear even while it remains in a player’s library.
The game was delisted on 30 October 2026, but existing owners can still redownload it and play offline modes such as Play Now and MyNBA. The article also points to Ubisoft’s removal of The Crew from some players’ libraries, Sony’s planned end to disc-based PlayStation games in January 2028, and boxed GTA VI copies containing download codes. Alternatives include GOG’s offline installers, while Nintendo’s game-key cards require an online download and check.
In short
- NBA 2K25’s server shutdown will end access to MyCareer and MyTeam.
- Digital game purchases are licences that can lose features or access.
- Discs and download codes do not always guarantee lasting play.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Publishers can argue that online modes depend on costly servers, licences and ongoing support, and that closing them when a game is no longer commercially viable lets them direct resources to current titles. Clear licence terms and advance notice can help buyers understand that access to some features is conditional, while retaining offline modes or offering alternatives can preserve part of the purchase’s value.
The case against
Players can argue that paying for a game creates a reasonable expectation of lasting access, especially when a single-player story or other advertised content depends on servers. Licence terms may permit closures, but that does not remove concerns about transparency or fairness; publishers could better respect customers by planning longer support, enabling offline access, or providing refunds or other remedies when substantial features disappear.
Explained simply
Digital games are often sold under a licence, which gives players access under conditions set by the publisher or platform. That can differ from owning a physical copy outright, and the terms may allow online services or features to be withdrawn.
Publishers such as 2K run the servers that support online modes and linked story content. When those servers close, some parts of a game may stop working even if players can still download it or use offline modes.
The issue affects players, game publishers and console platforms as more games rely on online access. How long a purchased game remains usable can depend on its design, the seller’s terms and whether the files needed to play are stored locally.