A sudden delisting has left PC gamers on GOG with a notable absence, as the real-time strategy game Circle Empires has been permanently removed from the digital storefront. While it may not be the most groundbreaking title, its significance is underscored by its impressive track record, boasting over 1,000 user reviews on Steam and an 88% approval rating, which qualifies it for the “Very Positive” distinction on the Valve platform. On GOG, it maintains a respectable score of 3.8 out of 5, a commendable achievement given that titles on this platform typically receive lower ratings than their Steam counterparts.
The Context of the Delisting
This delisting follows a wave of removals from GOG, where six different games were taken down on July 31. Circle Empires, developed by Luminous and published by Iceberg Interactive, now joins that list. Released in 2018, this game allows players to assume the role of a god-like leader tasked with expanding a tiny kingdom through strategic conquests. Earlier this year, a sequel titled Circle Empires 2 was launched, yet it remains unavailable on GOG, leaving users without access to either title on the platform. Both games, however, continue to thrive on Steam, which adds a layer of frustration for GOG users.
The reasons behind the delisting remain unclear, particularly since Circle Empires will still be available on Steam. The communication surrounding this decision has been somewhat peculiar, coming primarily from GOG rather than the developers or publishers involved.
A Humble RTS
While the delisting may seem abrupt, GOG did announce it on August 6, providing a mere 48 hours’ notice. For those eager to experience the game before it potentially disappears from Steam as well, it is currently priced at .99. Players might consider jumping straight into the sequel, but it’s worth noting that the original game has garnered a significantly higher user review score.
As a more casual entry into the real-time strategy genre, Circle Empires does not aim to reinvent the wheel but instead offers a bite-sized experience that can be more accessible for newcomers. The genre is often perceived as daunting, with many titles catering primarily to hardcore fans. However, Circle Empires provides a refreshing alternative.
User reviews reflect this sentiment: “A fun little game. More on the casual side, but overall something to relax and enjoy,” one player noted, while another remarked, “Just solid, even in 2026 simple strategy… love it.”
Despite the disappointment surrounding recent delistings, there is a silver lining for GOG users who are passionate about game preservation. Recently, a classic PC game was added to the platform, and it was made available for free, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the changes.
