The rising cost of video games has become a topic of concern for many gamers, particularly with discussions surrounding titles like the anticipated price tag for Borderlands 4. Yet, an intriguing question arises: what if some consumers feel that games are undervalued and wish to contribute more? GOG has recently introduced a novel approach that allows users to do just that, effectively turning their platform into a donation hub akin to a charitable organization.
GOG’s Innovative Donation System
This new donation feature, which some might describe as a tipping system, was highlighted on Reddit and is refreshingly straightforward. Upon proceeding to checkout, users encounter an additional window offering the option to contribute extra funds, either in preset amounts or whatever they choose. This initiative is part of GOG’s Preservation Program, designed to ensure that classic games remain playable on modern hardware, even when original developers cease support. Notably, this option to donate extends to both vintage titles and new releases. For instance, while adding Larian’s acclaimed RPG Divine Divinity and the equally impressive Baldur’s Gate 3 to my cart, I was prompted to consider contributing a few extra dollars to support the cause.
While the concept may seem unusual, it raises interesting questions about the nature of gaming as a business. GOG, a subsidiary of CD Projekt, has historically maintained a modest profitability, yet it continues to operate successfully. The notion of donating to a for-profit distribution platform owned by one of Europe’s most prosperous game studios—one that consistently reports substantial quarterly profits—might strike some as peculiar. After all, why should consumers feel compelled to donate to a company that is already thriving?
Surprisingly, the reception of this donation feature on Reddit has been largely positive. Rather than facing backlash for what some might perceive as a cash grab, many users have expressed enthusiasm, with a few already making donations. One individual even suggested the possibility of creating avenues for donations that are not tied to game purchases, simply to support the platform out of goodwill.
While I personally find the idea of preordering games and participating in crowdfunding campaigns appealing, I remain skeptical about contributing additional funds to a well-established corporation. GOG has its merits, but with CD Projekt reporting profits exceeding 0 million in 2024, it seems reasonable to expect that they could allocate some of their resources to sustain operations without relying on consumer donations.
