Game Preservation
Ongoing coverage on Game Preservation.
Latest coverage
Game History and Preservation
The organization Stop Killing Games is supporting a California bill aimed at forcing companies to maintain game functionality. This initiative seeks to address the growing issue of game preservation by ensuring that purchased titles remain playable.
Switch 2 Gets Edgy: Splatoon Raiders & Fire Emblem Rate... | TAG
Two new Nintendo Switch 2 games, Splatoon Raiders and Fire Emblem: Fortune's Weave, have received age ratings in Europe, suggesting upcoming releases. Separately, hackers are threatening to release data from Grand Theft Auto 6 after ransom demands were not met, though Rockstar Games appears unconcerned. The article also touches on reviews for Gigabyte OLED monitors and various quick gaming news updates.
MandaloreGaming’s System Shock Remake Review Highlights the Remake Renaissance
Influential critic MandaloreGaming's review of System Shock Remake has reignited discussions about the quality of modern remakes and the importance of game preservation. The review highlights Nightdive Studios' careful approach to updating the classic immersive sim, balancing fidelity to the original with necessary modernizations.
Popular World Of Warcraft Private Server Turtle WoW Ordered To Cease And Desist
Blizzard Entertainment has successfully obtained a cease and desist order against the popular World of Warcraft private server, Turtle WoW, following a legal battle over copyright infringement. The settlement, reached after a judge ruled in Blizzard's favor, mandates the immediate and permanent cessation of the private server's operation and distribution. While the settlement details are confidential, Blizzard plans to file for dismissal of the case by June 2026.
Dune: Awakening to get self-hosted servers, plus they're splitting PvE and PvP
Funcom is implementing major changes to Dune: Awakening, including the introduction of self-hosted servers and a split between PvE and PvP experiences. The developers are making PvP more optional due to over 80% of players exclusively engaging with PvE content, disabling PvP zones in Hagga Basin and offering separate PvE and PvP instances.
Stop Killing Games throw weight behind California bill that would force companies to either keep games working independently after server shutdowns or issue refunds
The campaign group Stop Killing Games is supporting a new bill in California called the 'Protect our Games Act'. This legislation would require game companies to either ensure server-connected games can function independently after support ends or issue full refunds to consumers. The group is also actively involved in similar efforts in the UK and Europe.
D7VK version 1.7 brings even more retro Direct3D gaming to Linux
D7VK version 1.7, a Vulkan-based translation layer for running older Direct3D games on Linux via Wine/Proton, has been released. This update improves rendering for legacy Direct3D versions 3, 5, 6, and earlier, enhancing compatibility for titles like O.R.B: Off-World Resource Base, Requiem: Avenging Angel, and Warhammer: Dark Omen. Further work is planned for fixed function lighting and other legacy features.
Blizzard wins injunction against vanilla World of Warcraft private server
Blizzard Entertainment has won an injunction against a popular World of Warcraft private server, Turtle WoW. While the specifics of a settlement are confidential, the ruling is expected to resolve the legal action entirely. This case highlights Blizzard's stance against unauthorized private servers, even for classic versions of the game.
Amazon Luna is killing off third-party library support, with save files not ‘guaranteed’ to work on other platforms
Amazon is discontinuing third-party library support for its cloud gaming service, Amazon Luna, effective June 10. Players will no longer be able to stream games purchased on other platforms through Luna, and save file compatibility with external services is not guaranteed. While some games will still be available via Luna's Premium tier, this move signifies a significant reduction in the service's flexibility.
Former Xbox VP Ed Fries Says Consoles Aren’t Going Away, Reflects on Industry Growth
Former Xbox Vice President Ed Fries believes consoles will remain relevant in the gaming industry. The discussion also touches upon the importance of game preservation and the ongoing debate surrounding physical media versus digital distribution.
Hideo Kojima put Low Roar in Death Stranding because gamers need more culture in their lives
Hideo Kojima discussed his decision to include the band Low Roar in Death Stranding, stating that gamers need more cultural experiences. The conversation also touched upon the nature of pre-rendered trailers in game development and the importance of game preservation, with differing views expressed on physical media versus digital ownership.
Games Inbox: What is your favourite retro video game format?
Readers discuss their favorite retro gaming formats, with the Atari ST, ZX Spectrum, and Commodore 64 being popular choices. The discussion also touches on anticipation for upcoming games like The Witcher 4 and Switch 2, as well as the perceived decline of studios like Firaxis.
Everything Evercade: All the latest cartridge releases and consoles for Blaze's modern retro platform
Blaze's Evercade platform has expanded significantly since its 2020 debut, offering a range of retro consoles from handhelds to arcade machines that utilize physical cartridges. Recent releases include Taito Arcade 3 and The Turrican Collection, with upcoming compilations like Mega Cat Studios Collection 3 and Activision Collection 2 on the horizon. The Evercade Nexus handheld is set to offer enhanced features for early 3D games, while the platform's unique emulation approach prioritizes convenience and accuracy over user customization.
Game History and Preservation
A pre-release prototype of the game Mirror's Edge has been made playable. This development is significant for game preservation efforts, allowing access to earlier builds of the title.
Native Zelda: Twilight Princess PC Port Runs at Glorious 60FPS
A native PC port of The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess has been developed, allowing the game to run at a smooth 60 frames per second, a significant upgrade from its original 30FPS on GameCube. This fan-made project offers enhanced performance and potential for mods, though concerns exist regarding Nintendo's reaction to unauthorized fan endeavors. The port highlights the importance of fan-driven game preservation efforts.
Games Inbox: What is the best PS5 game?
Readers discuss their favorite PlayStation 5 games, with Elden Ring being a popular choice. The discussion also touches on the potential for Star Fox and Ecco the Dolphin remasters, concerns about developer survival, and the future of live service games.
Major PS3 Emulator Breakthrough Improves Performance in ‘All Games’
A significant breakthrough in PlayStation 3 emulation has reportedly improved performance across all games. The article discusses the importance of emulation for retro gaming and game preservation, especially as original hardware ages. It highlights how emulation makes classic titles accessible to new generations and allows players to experience the origins of modern franchises.
Nintendo announces limited-time Switch 2 offer with Super Mario Galaxy 1 + 2
Nintendo has announced a limited-time offer for the Nintendo Switch that includes Super Mario Galaxy and Super Mario Galaxy 2. The article also discusses the value of video game compilations for convenience and game preservation, citing examples like Capcom Fighting Collection 2 and Tomb Raider IV-VI Remastered.
Twisted Metal dev was "convinced" the PS3 would "never be" emulated, and now he's congratulating RPCS3 on proving him wrong: "Amazing work"
The developers behind the PlayStation 3 emulator RPCS3 have announced a significant breakthrough in emulating the console's complex Cell CPU, leading to performance improvements in games like the Twisted Metal reboot. James Stanard, the original game's principal engine developer, expressed his surprise and admiration, having previously believed the PS3 would be un-emulatable. This advancement is crucial for the preservation of the PS3's game library.
Issues and Activism
Limited Run Games has seemingly addressed concerns about future delays in physical game releases, suggesting they will not occur. This statement implies a shift in their operational strategy regarding production timelines.