Blizzard is Delisting the Classic OG Warcrafts from GOG

Thomas Coop

Warcraft I and II

Blizzard Entertainment has announced plans to remove the original Warcraft games from GOG.com. GOG will delist Warcraft: Orcs and Humans and Warcraft 2 from its storefront on December 31, 2024, at Blizzard’s request. This decision comes shortly after these classic titles entered GOG’s preservation program.

GOG has introduced a discount code, “MakeWarcraftLiveForever,” offering $2 off the Warcraft 1 and 2 bundle before their removal. This move gives fans a final chance to purchase these iconic strategy games that laid the foundation for the Warcraft franchise.

The delisting raises questions about game preservation and accessibility. It also coincides with Blizzard’s recent release of the Warcraft Battle Chest, suggesting a potential shift in the company’s distribution strategy for its classic titles.

Warcraft Retreats from GOG: Grab the Classics Before They’re Gone!

Attention, Warcraft fans! If you’ve been meaning to revisit the original RTS games that started it all, you’ll need to act fast. Blizzard is pulling Warcraft: Orcs & Humans and Warcraft II: Tides of Darkness from GOG.com very soon.

Delisting Date: December 13th, 2024

Mark your calendars! After December 13th, 2024, you’ll no longer be able to purchase the original Warcraft games on GOG.com. This is a significant move, as GOG is known for its commitment to DRM-free games and digital preservation.

Why the Sudden Departure?

While Blizzard hasn’t officially stated the reason for this delisting, it’s likely related to their focus on the recently released remasters of Warcraft 1 and 2. These remasters are available exclusively on Battle.net and offer updated graphics, improved gameplay, and modern online features. Blizzard probably wants to encourage players to experience these updated versions instead.

GOG’s Preservation Promise

Even though the games are being delisted, GOG has assured users that anyone who already owns them or purchases them before December 13th will retain access to them. This is in line with GOG’s commitment to preserving classic games and providing ongoing support. So, if you grab them now, you can keep playing them for years to come.

Last Chance to Get DRM-Free Warcraft

This delisting means that GOG.com is your last chance to get DRM-free versions of the original Warcraft games. If you value owning your games outright and playing them without restrictions, be sure to grab them before they’re gone. GOG is even offering a small discount on the Warcraft 1 and 2 bundle with the code MakeWarcraftLiveForever.

Key Takeaways for Warcraft Fans

PointDetails
Delisting DateDecember 13th, 2024
ReasonLikely due to focus on remasters available on Battle.net
GOG’s PromiseExisting owners and those who purchase before the deadline will retain access
DRM-Free AccessLast chance to get DRM-free versions of the original games
Discount CodeMakeWarcraftLiveForever for a small discount on the bundle

This situation highlights the ongoing tension between preserving classic games and promoting newer versions. While it’s understandable that Blizzard wants to focus on its remasters, it’s also important to remember the legacy of the original games. Thankfully, GOG’s commitment to preservation ensures that these classics will remain accessible to those who value them.

Key Takeaways

  • Blizzard will remove Warcraft 1 and 2 from GOG on December 31, 2024
  • GOG offers a discount code for the games before their removal
  • The delisting impacts game preservation efforts and accessibility

Impact of Delisting on Accessibility and Preservation

The delisting of Warcraft I and II from GOG affects game availability and long-term preservation efforts. This move raises questions about access to classic titles and the future of older games on modern systems.

Preservation Program and Accessibility Challenges

GOG’s preservation program aims to maintain access to delisted games for existing owners. This initiative ensures that players who purchased Warcraft I and II can still download and play these titles. The program provides offline installers, allowing users to install the games without an internet connection.

DRM-free versions of Warcraft I and II remain accessible to those who bought them before delisting. This approach preserves player ownership and prevents the games from becoming inaccessible due to server shutdowns or account issues.

However, new players face limited options to legally acquire these classic RTS titles. The delisting reduces accessibility for those interested in experiencing the origins of the Warcraft franchise.

Compatibility and Tech Support for Legacy Titles

Maintaining compatibility with modern Windows operating systems poses challenges for legacy games. GOG’s versions of Warcraft I and II were optimized to run on current hardware and software configurations.

Tech support for these older titles may become more limited after delisting. Players might encounter difficulties running the games on newer systems without official patches or updates.

GOG’s preservation efforts include providing documentation and community support forums. These resources can help users troubleshoot compatibility issues and enjoy the games on modern computers.

Lifetime access to purchased games through GOG ensures players can redownload and reinstall Warcraft I and II as needed. This feature supports long-term preservation and playability of these classic titles.

Market Implications and Community Response

Blizzard’s decision to delist the original Warcraft games from GOG has sparked reactions across the gaming industry. This move affects game preservation efforts and alters the market for classic PC titles.

Impact on the Warcraft Community

The delisting of Warcraft 1 and 2 from GOG has disappointed many fans. Players who missed the chance to purchase these games now face limited options. Some community members have started online petitions, like #MakeWarcraftLiveForever, to urge Blizzard to reconsider.

Collectors and enthusiasts feel the loss of easy access to these foundational real-time strategy games. The move pushes players towards Blizzard’s remastered versions, which cost $40. This price point has caused debate among fans about the value proposition of updated graphics versus classic gameplay.

Alternatives and the Future of Classic Games

GOG has promised to protect delisted games for existing owners. This commitment reassures those who already purchased the titles. Steam and other platforms may become alternative sources for classic games, though availability varies.

The situation raises questions about digital ownership and game preservation. Some industry experts suggest that companies like CD Projekt, GOG’s parent company, might expand their preservation programs. This could include negotiating with publishers to keep classic games accessible.

Gamers are exploring other classic RTS titles as substitutes. Warcraft 3 and World of Warcraft remain popular, but some fans seek the nostalgia of the original games. The incident has prompted discussions about the importance of maintaining gaming history and the role of digital storefronts in preserving classic PC games.

Frequently Asked Questions

The delisting of classic Warcraft games from GOG has raised several questions among fans. Players are concerned about accessing these titles and understanding Blizzard’s motivations.

What will happen to the original Warcraft games previously available on GOG?

GOG has confirmed that users who bought the games before the delisting will keep access to them. These players can still download and play the titles through their GOG accounts. The games are no longer available for new purchases on the platform.

How can I play the original Warcraft titles now that they are no longer on GOG?

Players who didn’t purchase the games before the delisting have limited options. Some may find physical copies or digital versions through other platforms. Blizzard has not announced plans to make these original versions available elsewhere.

What is Blizzard’s reason for delisting the classic Warcraft games from GOG?

Blizzard has not provided an official statement on the delisting. Many speculate it’s related to the recent release of remastered versions of Warcraft 1 and 2. The company may want to focus on promoting these updated editions.

Will Blizzard offer an alternative way to purchase and play the old Warcraft games?

Blizzard has not announced plans to offer the original versions through other channels. The company seems to be directing players towards their remastered editions. Future availability of the classic games remains uncertain.

Are there any remastered editions of the classic Warcraft titles as a replacement for the GOG versions?

Yes, Blizzard has released remastered versions of Warcraft 1 and 2. These updated editions are available on Battle.net. The Warcraft 1 remaster costs $9.99, while Warcraft 2 is priced at $14.99.

How does the delisting of the Warcraft games from GOG affect current owners?

Current owners of the GOG versions can still access and play their games. GOG has stated they will continue to support these purchases. Players can download and install the games from their GOG library as before.