GOG declares 'The future of preservation is decided by players who give a sh*t' after New Blood CEO expresses concern for the storefront's lifespan
PC Gamer
by Joshua Wolens February 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
GOG, a prominent platform for classic and indie games, has responded to concerns about its long-term viability raised by New Blood CEO Dave Oshry. While GOG did not directly address whether it faces imminent closure, the company emphasized that game preservation relies on community support. In a statement, GOG acknowledged Oshry’s point, stating, “Game preservation only works if people care.” The platform urged players to show their commitment by purchasing DRM-free games, participating in voting rounds for game listings, and joining GOG Patrons. These actions, GOG argued, are essential not just for its survival but for the broader preservation of gaming history.
GOG’s response comes after Oshry expressed doubts about the platform’s future, noting that it holds only a small percentage of Steam’s sales. While GOG did not comment on its financial status, the company highlighted its 20-year history and ongoing success in curating and preserving older titles. This effort, GOG explained, is crucial for ensuring that classic games remain accessible to new generations. The platform has long positioned itself as a repository of gaming heritage, offering DRM-free versions of nostalgia-inducing titles like *Heroes of Might and Magic 3*.
The debate over GOG’s future underscores the tension between profit-driven platforms like Steam and niche efforts like GOG. While GOG’s audience may be smaller, its focus on preservation aligns with a growing interest in retro gaming and digital rights management (DRM). Players who care about game history are encouraged to support platforms like GOG by actively engaging with their offerings and advocating for DRM-free options. This not only sustains GOG but also ensures that the games that shaped modern gaming remain available for future generations.
Ultimately, the discussion highlights the importance of community-driven efforts in preserving digital culture. For gamers passionate about retro titles and independent developers, supporting platforms like GOG is a way to ensure that these pieces of gaming history endure. Whether through voting on game listings or simply buying DRM-free games, players have the power to shape the future of preservation—and GOG’s response serves as a call to action for those who care about keeping
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Originally published on PC Gamer on 2/24/2026