When Resident Evil Launched on GOG: A Surprising Success Story
GOG.com, known for bringing classic games to modern PCs, faced a tough challenge convincing Capcom to release the original Resident Evil trilogy on its platform. Capcom initially saw no value in the classic versions because they believed the remakes were superior and enough for fans. However, GOG pushed back, emphasizing there was an entire generation eager to revisit the originals.
Convincing Capcom: The Road to Releasing the Classics
GOG’s Marcin Paczynski shared that the process was difficult but worth it. He noted how Capcom thought the classic games wouldn’t sell because remakes already exist, but GOG convinced them otherwise. The original games were updated for modern systems and released anyway. The gamble paid off massively, as the classics received overwhelmingly positive reviews and strong sales on GOG.
Why the Classics Still Matter
The reception for the Resident Evil originals on GOG was “phenomenal,” with 94% positive reviews, proving the demand is still there. Many fans appreciate the fixed camera angles and original controls that remakes don’t replicate, preserving the unique experience of the initial titles. Retro gamers especially value this authenticity.
Ongoing Concerns About Preservation
There’s growing concern in the gaming community about game preservation, with many classic titles becoming inaccessible as physical media disappears and backward compatibility fades. GOG is stepping up with its Preservation Program to keep these games alive for current and future generations, starting with classics like Resident Evil.
FAQs About Resident Evil on GOG
- Why didn’t Capcom want to release the classic games initially? They believed remakes were the superior versions and didn’t see the demand for the originals.
- Are the original Resident Evil games still available on modern platforms? Yes, thanks to efforts by GOG to update and preserve them.
- What makes the original games special compared to remakes? Unique elements like fixed camera angles and original control schemes preserve the original experience.
- How successful were the Resident Evil originals on GOG? They received 94% positive reviews and sold strongly, proving the fan base remains.
- What is the GOG Preservation Program? It’s an initiative to update and preserve classic games for future accessibility.
Conclusion
The launch of the Resident Evil trilogy on GOG was a big win for game preservation and fan demand. It showed that classic games still have a passionate audience, even in an era dominated by remakes. Platforms like GOG play a crucial role in making sure these games remain accessible and appreciated.