Blizzard Entertainment has just announced it's pulling the original versions of the beloved strategy games, Warcraft I and Warcraft II, from digital storefronts like GOG (Good Old Games) as it prepares to release remastered versions of both titles. The cutoff date is set for December 13, 2024, giving fans just over ten days to grab the classics before they disappear.
The news isn't all bad, though. GOG has implemented what it's calling the "Preservation Program," which aims to keep older titles alive and accessible. According to GOG's statement, even after delisting, anyone who buys either of the original Warcraft games before the deadline will continue to receive high-quality versions supported by the platform.
"Although we’ll soon no longer be able to offer these games in our store, anyone who purchased them before they were removed will still enjoy the most compatible, high-quality versions, guaranteed by the GOG Preservation Program," GOG noted. This means even if the games disappear from GOG's catalog, players will still have access to continued support, ensuring compatibility with modern systems.
Warcraft I and Warcraft II, released back in the 1990s, have long held iconic statuses among gamers. They set the groundwork for what many know today as real-time strategy gaming, combining compelling storytelling with complex gameplay mechanics. With the upcoming remasters, Blizzard is giving these classics the modern shine they deserve, complete with improved graphics and various quality-of-life updates.
On its official channels, Blizzard highlighted the desire to reach both old fans and new players with these remasters. The new games will boast enhanced visuals, upgraded mechanics, and even features for multiplayer enjoyment, potentially rekindling interest among those who haven’t had the chance to experience these titles yet.
Current owners of the non-remastered versions can take comfort knowing GOG will continue to provide patches and updates, reinforcing their commitment to preserving gaming history. This isn't just talk; GOG's Preservation Program now includes over 100 titles, ensuring they continue to operate smoothly, even on upcoming platforms and systems.
While Blizzard hasn’t confirmed whether it will pull these games from its own Battle.net storefront, they are still available for purchase there. For now, players have the option to buy the originals or the upcoming remastered versions. It’s worth noting, though, GOG offers DRM-free versions, which some gamers find more appealing.
Gamers who want to snatch up the original versions before they go away can even take advantage of GOG’s promotional code, “MakeWarcraftLiveForever,” to save some funds on their purchase.
All of this changes the conversation around accessibility and gaming preservation. GOG has laid the groundwork for support and preservation of classic titles, encouraging studios to reconsider how they handle their legacy games. It shows the value players place on old-school gaming experiences and the need for them to remain accessible to today’s players.
This move by Blizzard and GOG indicates the importance of both remastering beloved classics and ensuring the originals don’t fade away completely. The decision to maintain support for the original games even after delisting reflects gaming’s broader trend of valuing preservation.
On one side, there’s excitement about the remasters unleashing nostalgia and interest for both old and new players. On the flip side, it raises questions on what happens to the original versions which defined the genre. Thankfully, GOG’s unwavering commitment to preserving these titles provides players with the reassurance they need.
With memories tied to everything from intrigue with the storylines to strategic battles and epic campaigns, the Warcraft series remains deeply embedded within the hearts of its fanbase. While the originals will soon take their bows from GOG, their legacy will continue to be honored by dedicated platforms committed to ensuring classic games never truly disappear.
Fans now face days of decision—purchase the non-remastered versions and take part of gaming history home or hold out for the remastered series. This moment embodies everything nostalgic and hopeful about gaming: old loves returning wrapped in shiny new packages and the recognition of the past as we step toward the future.