Discover why Warcraft I and II are being delisted from GOG on December 13, as we explore Blizzard's strategy behind the move and what it means for fans and players of these classic games.

The digital gaming store GOG will soon cease sales of the classic real-time strategy games Warcraft: Orcs & Humans and Warcraft II following a decision made by the publisher, Blizzard Entertainment. This move is part of a broader strategy tied to the recent release of remastered versions of these iconic games. As of December 13, these seminal titles will no longer be available for purchase through GOG, although existing owners will continue to have access to their copies.

Understanding the Delisting

Blizzard’s decision to delist these games from GOG coincides with the launch of the remastered editions, which were unveiled during Blizzard’s Warcraft 30th Anniversary Direct event. This event marked a significant milestone, celebrating three decades of Warcraft’s influence on the gaming industry by introducing updated versions of the original games that feature enhanced graphics and modern compatibility features.

The Role of GOG’s Preservation Program

Despite their removal from the sales catalog, GOG emphasizes its commitment to preserving access for existing users through its Preservation Program. This initiative ensures that games, even those delisted, remain playable and supported for current owners. This means that any updates or support needed due to future system changes will still be managed by GOG for these titles.

Impact and Legacy

The delisting reflects a strategic shift by Blizzard towards promoting their newer, remastered versions that are intended to replace the originals on modern gaming rigs. However, for many enthusiasts of the franchise, the original games represent a nostalgic journey to the roots of real-time strategy gaming. GOG has been crucial in keeping these older versions accessible, especially for those who prefer DRM-free gaming, which allows users to play games without the need for continuous online authentication.

As we approach the December 13 cutoff, fans and new players alike have a brief window to purchase the original Warcraft titles from GOG. This event is a critical reminder of the gaming industry’s evolving nature, where modern iterations of classic games are becoming the norm, pushing older versions into the realm of cherished memories and collector’s items.

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Mary Woods

Mary is a passionate tech enthusiast with over 4 years of experience in writing about global technological advancements. Currently based in Miami, she has a deep interest in all things tech and is particularly drawn to the wonders of the modern internet. Writing about the latest technological trends online is not just her expertise but also her hobby. Mary’s dedication to exploring and sharing the latest in technology makes her a key contributor to PC-Tablet.com, where she brings her insights and enthusiasm to every article she writes.