Blizzard Entertainment is planning to pull two of its classic Warcraft titles from GOG, the well-loved digital store platform. Warcraft: Orcs and Humans and Warcraft II will be off the shelves starting December 13th, 2024. The move has triggered discussions among gamers about GOG’s game preservation strategy and the accessibility of older titles.
The games we’re talking about aren’t just any old releases. They’re the backbone of the Warcraft series, paving the way for the hugely successful World of Warcraft. Released in 1994 and 1995, these real-time strategy games were key players in shaping the genre and Blizzard’s path forward.
While this news might let down some fans, there’s a silver lining. GOG has confirmed that folks who already own the games can still download and play them. Thanks to GOG’s Preservation Program, these classics will keep getting updates to work smoothly on modern machines.
To the GOG Community and gamers all over the world:
— GOG.COM (@GOGcom) December 2, 2024
We’re deeply saddened to share the news that Warcraft: Orcs and Humans and Warcraft II will leave our store on December 13th, 2024.
At GOG, we believe that games should live forever. This means not only preserving them but… pic.twitter.com/bx5dIaNZ70
Blizzard’s choice to remove these games follows the company’s release of remastered versions of early Warcraft hits. It’s likely this aligns with their plan to steer focus towards their own digital platforms and revamped game versions.
For those eager to grab these games before they’re gone, GOG is offering a discount with the code “MakeWarcraftLiveForever.” It’s a last shot to snag a slice of gaming nostalgia in its original glory.
As companies roll out remasters and new projects, getting your hands on the original versions can become tougher. GOG’s effort to keep these games for existing owners highlights the importance of preserving this part of gaming history.
Like Blizzard, more firms are tightening control over their properties and focusing on their own platforms. While some fans might be let down, others understand Blizzard’s reasoning. The remastered versions bring revamped graphics and controls, potentially giving modern gamers a fresher experience without losing the original magic. So if you are a fan of the pure retro WoW experience, now is your time.
