Who Runs Good Old Games?
Good Old Games, commonly referred to as GOG, is a digital distribution platform for video games and movies. Founded in 2008, GOG has become a popular destination for gamers seeking to purchase and play classic games without the need for a physical copy. But have you ever wondered who runs this platform?
The Owner: CD Projekt
Good Old Games is owned by CD Projekt, a Polish video game developer and publisher. CD Projekt is best known for developing the highly acclaimed Witcher series, but it’s also the parent company of GOG. In 2008, CD Projekt launched GOG as a way to offer classic games without the need for a physical copy or the hassle of finding a copy in a store.
The Management Team
The management team at GOG is led by a team of experienced gaming industry professionals. The team is responsible for acquiring and curating the games that are sold on the platform, as well as developing the technology and infrastructure that powers the platform.
The Games Library
GOG’s library of games is one of the largest and most diverse in the industry. The platform offers a wide range of games, including classic titles from the 80s and 90s, as well as more recent releases. GOG also offers a selection of movies and TV shows, making it a one-stop-shop for entertainment enthusiasts.
Digital Rights Management (DRM)
GOG is known for its commitment to DRM-free gaming. DRM stands for Digital Rights Management, and it refers to the technology used to protect copyrighted digital content. GOG believes that DRM is unnecessary and can be restrictive for gamers, so it has chosen to operate without it.
Why DRM-Free Matters
• No restrictions on gameplay: With GOG, you can play your games without worrying about online connections or other restrictions.
• No need for registration: You don’t need to register or create an account to play your games on GOG.
• No need for constant internet connection: You can play your games offline, without needing to be connected to the internet.
What Happened to Good Old Games?
In 2019, GOG announced that it would be shutting down its operations and removing its games from sale. The move was met with widespread criticism from gamers and fans of the platform. However, it appears that GOG has since relaunched its operations and is once again selling games.
Is GOG Owned by Amazon?
No, GOG is not owned by Amazon. It is owned by CD Projekt, a Polish video game developer and publisher.
Do You Own Your GOG Games?
GOG’s system works great for me – for my "use case" – that is, I buy games for me to play on my PC’s. Most software is sold on an "you have a license to use" not on an "you OWN it" basis. GOG doesn’t "own" the rights to the vast majority of software it sells. It’s basically a retail distributor.
Table: Comparison of GOG and Steam
| GOG | Steam | |
|---|---|---|
| DRM: | DRM-free | Uses Steam’s DRM |
| Registration: | No registration required | Requires registration |
| Offline Play: | Games can be played offline | Games require online connection |
| Library: | Offers a wide range of games, including classics | Offers a wide range of games, including indie titles |
Conclusion
GOG is a unique and popular platform that offers a wide range of games and movies without the need for a physical copy or restrictive DRM. With its commitment to DRM-free gaming and its diverse library of titles, GOG has become a go-to destination for gamers seeking a hassle-free gaming experience.