Game Preservationists Criticize Industry for Lack of Action
Industry figures and preservationists are highlighting the growing challenges of keeping digital and physical games accessible. Concerns are mounting as companies phase out physical media and online services, leaving few legal avenues for preservation. This has led some experts to suggest piracy is currently the only effective method for safeguarding gaming history.
Coverage across 15 outlets
Game History and Preservation
A video game industry lobby group, previously opposed to library-led preservation efforts, is now pushing back against the 'Stop Killing Games' initiative. The group argues that such efforts could hinder the development of new games, features, and technologies.
Game industry lobby group that argued against preservation efforts from libraries is now pushing back on Stop Killing Games, saying it could prevent 'new games, features, and technology'
The game industry lobby group ESA is pushing back against the 'Stop Killing Games' initiative, arguing that preservation efforts could hinder the development of new games and technologies. This follows similar arguments made by Video Games Europe, which warned of increased development costs and potential exposure to unsafe community content. The ESA has a history of lobbying against game preservation efforts, including past arguments against DMCA allowances for libraries.
The video games industry wants to keep killing games, actually
The 'Stop Killing Games' initiative is advocating for legislation like California's AB 1921, the Protect Our Games Act, to prevent video games from becoming unplayable when online services are shut down. The Entertainment Software Association is lobbying against the bill, arguing that games are licensed, not owned, and that server maintenance is complex. The initiative counters that the proposed law offers companies options like patching games for offline play or issuing refunds, rather than demanding perpetual server support.
Game History and Preservation
The owner of E3 and the organization Stop Killing Games are in disagreement regarding a Californian bill focused on game preservation. The E3 owner argues that the demand for such legislation is not driven by a need for eternal server support, but rather by broader preservation concerns.
Game History and Preservation
A new NGO called Gamers' Voice has launched in the UK, focusing on game preservation. The article highlights Microsoft's discontinuation of MS-DOS support 20 years ago, while noting that some games, including a prominent roguelike, still maintain compatibility with the older operating system.
The Daily Grind: Would you start playing an MMO you know is going to shut down?
This article discusses the dilemma of whether players would start an MMORPG that is known to be shutting down soon. It explores the motivation behind experiencing a game before its inevitable closure and questions how long of a window would prompt such an impulse.
Game History and Preservation
The creators of the Evercade retro gaming console are developing handheld versions of the ZX Spectrum and Commodore 64. This initiative highlights ongoing efforts in game preservation for classic computer systems.
Game History and Preservation
The article discusses the history and preservation of video games, highlighting Zork's 1980 code and the development of "Super SNES," a modern emulator created by the original developers. It touches on the importance of preserving classic titles and the technology behind them.
Game History and Preservation
Two classic Nintendo games from the early 1990s, Super Mario Bros. 3 and The Legend of Zelda, are receiving surprise physical re-releases this fall. Additionally, a rare Nintendo game has been restored after over 50 years, highlighting ongoing efforts in game preservation.
Game History and Preservation
Sega has launched Sega Universe, a project aimed at reviving its older intellectual properties beyond just video games. Separately, Peter Molyneux has commented on the Fable reboot, with details emerging via IGN. These initiatives highlight a growing focus on game preservation and IP utilization within the industry.
Game History and Preservation
The 'Stop Killing Games' movement is celebrating after The Crew 2 received further support for an offline mode. This development is seen as a victory for game preservation advocates concerned about titles becoming inaccessible when online servers are shut down.
Steam Collector Becomes Digital Archaeologist, Preserving Games Lost to Time
A Steam user's collection of delisted games highlights the fragility of digital libraries and the growing importance of game preservation. This act of collecting serves as a reminder of how easily digital content can disappear from storefronts due to expired licenses or corporate decisions. The article discusses the challenges of digital ownership, the role of collectors as unintentional archivists, and the broader implications for gaming culture and history.
Game History and Preservation
The article touches on the importance of game preservation, referencing artwork by Mick McGinty for Street Fighter 2. It highlights the role of art in documenting gaming history.
Game History and Preservation
Stop Killing Games presented a compelling case for game preservation during a hearing in the European Parliament. The organization reported a highly positive reception from parliament members, indicating strong support for initiatives to protect video game history.
Game History and Preservation
Ross Scott addressed the European Parliament regarding the "Stop Killing Games" initiative, emphasizing the importance of preserving video game history. The discussion highlighted concerns over the loss of older titles and the need for proactive measures to ensure their availability for future generations.
Game History and Preservation
A public hearing was held in the European Parliament regarding game preservation, with discussions on preventing the destruction of video games. Separately, prototype gameplay for the unreleased Quake 4: The Awakening has surfaced online.
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.
Game History and Preservation
The Hiryu no Ken Collection has been announced for PC, with Gematsu reporting on the news. Additionally, Eurogamer.net has revealed the discovery of an astonishing, never-before-seen deleted cutscene from Elden Ring, highlighting ongoing interest in game history and preservation.
Game History and Preservation
GOG has released optimized ports of the original PC Resident Evil trilogy on Steam, making these classic titles more accessible. This move highlights ongoing efforts in game preservation, ensuring older games can be played on modern platforms.
Game History and Preservation
A YouTuber has constructed a dedicated building to preserve PC gaming oddities. This initiative highlights the growing concern and effort towards preserving digital history in the face of technological obsolescence.