GOG has revealed a new initiative aimed at preserving games that are no longer supported by their original developers. At the moment, the program features a total of 62 titles, which include beloved classics such as Diablo, Dragon Age: Origins, Resident Evil, Warcraft (1 and 2), and System Shock. This collection is expected to expand over time as more games meet GOG's standards for quality.
Focus on Windows
Currently, the GOG Preservation Program is available exclusively for Windows. There are plans to potentially include Linux and macOS support in the future, but that may take some time since there are numerous Windows games that need to be preserved. Only those games that are not actively maintained by their original creators can be included. However, some titles might not make it due to various licensing and intellectual property issues.
Keeping the Classics Alive
GOG aims to maintain the games in their original forms as much as possible. If needed, it will implement enhancements for user experience, such as compatibility with modern controllers, localization, and cloud saving features. At present, GOG is also offering significant discounts on select older games. Just like all games bought on the platform, these titles are free from DRM and include an offline installer.
In a time where many classic games risk being forgotten, GOG's effort stands out as a refreshing change. The gaming industry could benefit from more initiatives like this, particularly for different platforms. However, challenges arise with companies that have strict regulations, such as Nintendo, which complicate efforts with their anti-emulation stance.
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