Are 87% of video games missing?

Are 87% of Video Games Missing?

The world of video games is vast and ever-growing, with new titles being released every day. However, despite this abundance, a significant number of classic games are missing, leaving a gap in our gaming history. According to a recent study, 87% of classic games are missing, and in this article, we will delve into the reasons behind this phenomenon and explore what it means for gamers and game developers.

The Problem of Missing Games

The study, conducted by the Video Game History Foundation, found that a staggering 87% of classic games are not in release, making them critically endangered. This means that millions of games, spanning across various platforms and time periods, are either lost, destroyed, or inaccessible to the public. The impact of this is significant, as it not only erases a part of gaming history but also deprives future generations of the opportunity to experience and learn from these games.

Causes of Missing Games

So, why are so many games missing? The reasons are complex and multifaceted. Here are some of the key causes:

• Physical media degradation: Many classic games were released on physical media, such as cartridges, CDs, or floppy disks. Over time, these media have degraded, rendering the games unplayable.
• Digital games without preservation: In the early days of digital distribution, many games were released without preservation in mind. This means that the games were not backed up or archived, leaving them vulnerable to deletion or loss.
• Copyright issues: Copyright laws can be a significant barrier to game preservation. Many games are tied up in complex legal agreements, making it difficult to obtain the necessary permissions to preserve or release them.
• Lack of funding: Preserving classic games requires significant resources, including funding, expertise, and infrastructure. Unfortunately, many game preservation efforts lack the necessary funding to properly preserve these games.

Consequences of Missing Games

The consequences of missing games are far-reaching and significant. Here are some of the key impacts:

• Loss of gaming history: By losing these games, we are erasing a part of our gaming history. This means that future generations will not be able to learn from or appreciate the evolution of the gaming industry.
• Deprivation of cultural significance: Many classic games hold cultural significance, representing important milestones in the industry’s development. Losing these games means losing a piece of our cultural heritage.
• Impact on game development: The loss of classic games can also have an impact on game development. By studying and learning from the past, developers can create better games, but without access to these games, this is impossible.

Solutions and Preservation Efforts

While the problem of missing games is significant, there are steps being taken to preserve and make these games accessible again. Here are some of the key solutions and preservation efforts:

• Game preservation organizations: Organizations such as the Video Game History Foundation, the International Center for the History of Electronic Games, and the Museum of Art and Digital Entertainment are dedicated to preserving classic games.
• Digital preservation: Efforts such as the Internet Archive’s Console Living Room and the Museum of Art and Digital Entertainment’s Console Collection are working to digitally preserve classic games.
• Community-driven preservation: The gaming community is also playing a significant role in preserving classic games. Many gamers are working together to backup and share games, ensuring their survival.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the problem of missing games is a significant issue in the gaming industry. With 87% of classic games missing, we are erasing a part of our gaming history and depriving future generations of the opportunity to experience and learn from these games. However, there are steps being taken to preserve and make these games accessible again. By working together, we can ensure that the games of the past are preserved for the future.

Table: Missing Games by Platform

Bullets List: Benefits of Game Preservation

• Preserves gaming history and culture
• Allows for the study and learning from the past
• Provides a unique insight into game development and design
• Ensures the survival of classic games for future generations
• Can lead to the discovery of new and innovative game mechanics
• Can inspire new game development and innovation
• Can help to promote the gaming industry as a whole