⚡ Quick Summary
CD Projekt Red (CDPR) has officially sold its digital distribution platform, GOG.com, back to its original co-founder, Michał Kiciński, for approximately $25.26 million. The move allows CDPR to streamline operations and focus on game development using Unreal Engine 5, while ensuring GOG remains dedicated to its original DRM-free philosophy and digital ownership principles.
The digital distribution landscape has undergone a significant shift as CD Projekt Red (CDPR) officially announced the sale of GOG.com to its original co-founder, Michał Kiciński. This strategic divestment marks a return to the platform's roots, placing the future of DRM-free gaming back into the hands of a visionary who prioritizes digital ownership and the original philosophy behind the store.
For a reported sum of approximately $25.26 million (90.7 PLN), Kiciński resumes control of the storefront formerly known as "Good Old Games." This transition comes at a pivotal moment for the industry, making GOG's stance on independence and user control more relevant than ever.
This move is not merely a financial transaction but a philosophical realignment. By separating the storefront from the development studio, both entities can focus on their core competencies without the friction of competing internal priorities.
The Developer's Perspective
From the perspective of CD Projekt Red, the sale of GOG aligns with a larger effort aimed at operational streamlining. In recent moves, CDPR has taken steps to refocus on its primary identity as a game developer. A notable example of this was the transition away from their proprietary REDengine in favor of Unreal Engine 5.
The philosophy of "we want to make games, not engines" now extends to the management of its distribution platform. Managing a global storefront involves significant overhead, and by offloading GOG, CDPR can focus its resources toward its upcoming game development projects. The Cyberpunk 2 creative director previously defended the move to Unreal Engine 5 by stating the studio's desire to focus on the creative side of development rather than technical engine maintenance.
However, the relationship between the two entities remains symbiotic. CD Projekt Red games will continue to be published on GOG, and the existing library will remain available on the platform. This allows CDPR to maintain its presence on a DRM-free storefront while removing the operational burden of the platform from its direct management.
Michał Kiciński’s return signals a doubling down on the "DRM-free" ethos. Kiciński has committed to the buyout to preserve and grow the original philosophy behind GOG, insisting that the platform stands for "freedom, independence, and genuine control." For the end-user, the core experience remains unchanged: GOG will continue to provide DRM-free games and offline installers.
Core Functionality & Preservation
The primary differentiator for GOG remains the "Offline Installer." GOG provides standalone files that allow users to maintain their library without needing a persistent internet connection. This architecture reflects GOG’s philosophy of "genuine control"—the software is a convenience for the user, ensuring they truly own the content they purchase.
The GOG Galaxy 2.0 client remains an optional convenience tool for those who want it, but it is not a requirement for accessing or playing games. This choice underscores the commitment to user independence.
Furthermore, the GOG Preservation Program continues to be a central pillar of the platform's mission. This initiative involves modernizing classic titles to ensure they run on modern hardware. The program has already preserved and modernized 267 games, ensuring that the history of the medium is maintained for future generations. GOG has clarified that any donations made via Patreon or the store will go directly toward this preservation mission rather than to publishers or the new owner.
Future Outlook
The future of GOG under Kiciński likely involves an expansion of the GOG Preservation Program. There is a clear commitment to maintaining GOG as a sanctuary for digital preservation and a bastion for the "buy-to-own" model. As the industry evolves, the demand for permanent versions of games remains a priority for the GOG community.
| Feature | GOG (Under Kiciński) |
|---|---|
| DRM Philosophy | 100% DRM-Free |
| Offline Installers | Yes (Standalone Binaries) |
| Game Preservation | Active Program (267+ Titles) |
| Client Requirement | Optional (GOG Galaxy) |
| Ownership Structure | Private (Michał Kiciński) |
Expert Verdict & Future Implications
The GOG sale is a significant moment for the industry's health. By decoupling GOG from CDPR, the platform can act as an independent entity that advocates for consumer rights and digital ownership. This allows GOG to focus entirely on its mission without being tethered to the specific development roadmaps of a single studio.
The value of an offline, DRM-free installer remains a key asset for gamers who prioritize long-term access to their libraries. Kiciński is betting that the demand for "genuine control" over digital goods will continue to grow. The message from the new ownership is clear: ownership matters, and GOG intends to remain the primary destination for those who value it.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Will CD Projekt Red games disappear from GOG?
No. Despite the change in ownership, CD Projekt Red has confirmed that its games will continue to be published on GOG, and the existing library will remain available to all users.
What is the GOG Preservation Program exactly?
It is an initiative where GOG preserves and modernizes classic games to ensure they remain playable on modern systems. The program has already updated 267 games to ensure compatibility with current hardware.
Is GOG Galaxy 2.0 still available?
Yes. GOG Galaxy remains available as a convenience option for users, providing features like offline installers and library management, though it remains entirely optional.