GOG’s Crusade: Saving Old Games Needs Players Who Care
▼ Summary
– GOG is a digital platform dedicated to video game preservation and ensuring players truly own their DRM-free games.
– Its mission has been reinforced after co-founder Michał Kiciński acquired full control, and it is open to using AI to aid preservation.
– The platform’s effectiveness relies on community support, as highlighted by the statement that “game preservation only works if people care.”
– GOG encourages direct user engagement through initiatives like buying DRM-free games, voting on the Dreamlist, and joining the GOG Patrons program.
– The Patrons program allows supporters to fund restoration efforts for old games and receive perks like influencing preservation priorities.
When it comes to truly owning and preserving classic video games, one digital storefront stands apart through its consistent actions. GOG remains the singular digital distribution platform with a proven, dedicated commitment to video game preservation. This reputation isn’t based on marketing; it’s earned through years of tangible work rescuing titles from technological oblivion. The platform’s mission has only intensified following its recent acquisition by CD Projekt co-founder Michał Kiciński, reinforcing a core belief: players deserve to own their digital purchases, and gaming history must be saved in its authentic form.
The conversation was reignited when New Blood CEO Dave Oshry, in an interview, praised GOG’s efforts while offering a stark reality check. Echoing his sentiment, GOG’s social media issued a clear call: “game preservation only works if people care.” This statement cuts to the heart of the challenge. Public support for saving old games means little if purchasing habits don’t follow. Choosing convenient remasters over original re-releases, or defaulting exclusively to the largest storefronts, undermines the entire preservation ecosystem.
Oshry’s commentary was notably balanced. He expressed genuine admiration for GOG’s work but pointed out that competing platforms often offer a more polished user experience. His underlying question is crucial for the platform’s longevity: without a substantial and engaged community, how long can such a niche service survive? GOG’s response was strategic, transforming feedback into a direct appeal. They encouraged supporters to buy DRM-free games, participate in their Dreamlist for new additions, and consider joining the GOG Patrons program.
This Patrons initiative represents a fascinating evolution in community-driven preservation. For a monthly fee, members directly fund GOG’s restoration projects. These efforts go beyond simple compatibility; they involve careful updates that allow classic games to run seamlessly on modern hardware, often with enhanced controls, cloud saves, and improved rendering. In return, patrons gain access to an exclusive community, influence over which games are restored next, and behind-the-scenes content. It’s a model that formalizes the partnership between preservers and players, making support an active, participatory role. The future of gaming’s past ultimately depends on this very alliance, where passion is matched by practical action and sustained engagement.
(Source: EuroGamer)
