GameSpy disputes "inaccurate" shutdown reports, blames "delinquent" publishers

GameSpy Technologies gave publishers plenty of warning that servers would be shut down if overdue bills weren't paid, according to representatives.

"Reports that GameSpy Technologies 'shutdown servers without warning' are simply inaccurate," an update to the service's Facebook page claimed.

A "number" of publishers had let their contracts lapse by not paying for GameSpy services, the company added.

"In some cases this lapsing ranges back as much as four years. GameSpy Technologies has continued to provide months, and in some cases years, of service support for free. However we cannot be expected to provide a service free of charge to publishers who choose not to renew their service agreements and in some cases remain delinquent in delivering payment for past services."

The update said that "each case reported in the press the applicable publisher was well aware that they had not made the required payments" and had plenty of opportunity to warn users of impending closures.

"While we would hope and expect our publisher partners to message their user communities on changes in status of their games, often this is not done. The result is user confusion and frustration. It is regrettable that these publishers chose not to inform their users of the impending discontinuation of support," the update concluded.

GameSpy's statement has been contradicted by at least one affected company; Rebellion boss Jason Kingsley said the company was not informed of the impending shut down, and that service prices had jumped markedly in the wake of GLU's take over.

GLU purchased Gamespy Technologies, as distinct from Gamespy.com, from IGN in August 2012 for $2.7 million. Server shutdowns began, without warning, earlier this month.

Thanks, That VideoGame Blog.