The ongoing challenge of preserving classic video games has reached a critical juncture, prompting a proactive response from GOG, the online PC games store. Last November, GOG unveiled its Preservation Program, a commitment to ensure that over 100 classic titles remain accessible and functional on modern systems indefinitely. Recently, the program welcomed an exciting expansion, adding notable titles such as Silent Hill 4: The Room, the iconic Deus Ex, and the original FEAR to its roster of protected games.
New Additions to the Preservation Program
This latest announcement, made last night, highlights GOG’s dedication to safeguarding beloved games that have shaped the industry. The inclusion of these titles is not merely a nostalgic nod; it represents a significant step towards addressing the existential crisis faced by gamers and developers alike due to the disappearance of classic titles.
In a notable move earlier this year, GOG responded to the troubling trend of game preservation challenges, particularly in light of Warner Bros.’ controversial practices, which have included shelving completed films and erasing vast archives of classic animations. In February, following the closure of Monolith Productions, GOG pledged to rescue as many of the studio’s games as possible through its Preservation Program. The first title to benefit from this initiative is the acclaimed FEAR.
Among the exciting updates, Silent Hill 4 has been enhanced with previously unreleased scenes, including elusive “hauntings” that were embedded in the PC code but never activated. GOG’s engineers have successfully unearthed and restored these elements, enriching the gaming experience for fans.
In addition to the aforementioned titles, the program now encompasses a range of other classic games that have left an indelible mark on the gaming landscape. Noteworthy inclusions are:
- Fallout 2
- Vampire: The Masquerade – Redemption
- Alone In The Dark 1 to 3
- All eight original Ultima games
- The first three Tomb Raider titles from Crystal Dynamics
These games will receive ongoing maintenance to ensure compatibility with modern PCs for as long as GOG operates. The company has also assured users that plans are in place to continue preservation efforts even in the event of organizational changes.
As part of the current sale, many of these newly added titles are available at a substantial discount, with most priced at least 75 percent off, making it an opportune moment for gamers to explore these timeless classics.
