G2A’s proposed key-blocking tool receives little support, deadline extended

We previously reported on how G2A requested support from 100 developers before they would invest in building a key-blocking tool that would make their marketplace more secure. (Yeah, we’re confused about that too.) As we are rapidly approaching their original sign-on deadline of Aug. 15, G2A has released the list of developers who have joined in support of their security tool. In total, only 19 developers and publishers have added their name to the list, most notably Deep Silver (Saints Row III, Agents of Mayhem). Others include Crimson Leaf, MetalBear, Moonlight Mouse, and Troglobytes Games.

While G2A likely didn’t expect support to be flowing in at a record pace, having only 19 developers sign up during a month-long window is sure to be far under their predictions. Having received such a small amount of support, G2A has also announced that they will be extending the deadline for developers to express their interest in the key-blocking tool until the end of August. The key reseller hopes that two more weeks and a chance to speak with developers and publishers at Gamescom will stir up more support.

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G2A only receiving 19 signatures is pretty significant when you consider Mike Ross’ (who brought to light some of the issues indie devs face on G2A) petition to stop G2A from selling independently developed games has gained nearly 6,300 signatures and counting in around the same time.

Essentially, G2A has become a platform used to sell unethically and illegally obtained game keys. Many of these keys are given out by game publishers who were told they would be used to conduct game reviews or as giveaway prizes. The keys are later sold for profit. Of course, when these keys are bought by consumers, developers receive no money from the transaction. This led to indie dev Rami Ismail’s tweet, calling on players to “pirate [Vlambeer’s] games rather than buying them from a key reseller. These sites cost us so much potential dev time in customer service, investigating fake key requests, figuring out credit card chargebacks, and more.” At least if they do that, no one else makes money off of the studio’s labor.