We recently reported on Steam’s new licensing disclosure notice, a message explaining how it doesn’t actually own software purchases made on Steam’s storefront. Now, GOG is taking the opportunity to remind gamers of its friendlier, DRM-free business model.
In a tweetGOG shared an edited screenshot of its payment page with a notice stating, “Purchasing a digital product on GOG gives you offline installers, which cannot be taken away from you.” This proposed slogan, which appears to be more of a marketing opportunity than an actual proposal, is in stark contrast to the notice that now appears on Steam’s checkout page: “Purchasing a digital product grants a license to the product on Steam.”
Now, technically, you are no Games you buy from GOG legally. Purchased games are Licensed Yours forever, just like on Steam. This is standard software practice. Even if you purchased the CD version of Civilization At Walmart, or whatever, you’re bound by the game publisher’s licensing agreement.
But the game publisher can’t come into your house and remove the CD from your shelf. Physical copies of games with offline installers are the closest we get to “ownership.” This is what makes GOG special, it’s a digital-only storefront of course, but it allows you to download Offline installers without DRM. The offline installer can be moved between devices, backed up in the cloud, burned to a disc, or saved to an external hard drive – you can do whatever you want as long as you don’t violate the EULA or copyright law Basic. The game publisher cannot take the installer offline from you, the installer will continue to work if GOG stops working.
Of course, there are some caveats to GOG’s business model. Games that rely on online functionality may “go offline” when the publisher decides to shut down its servers. Although offline installers are great, they can take up a lot of storage space. Average GOG Customers He should They back up their installers to the cloud or an external drive, but many don’t do this.
I should also point out that the Steam licensing notice came in response to California Assembly Bill 2426 (AB2426), which forces digital storefronts to disclose when a purchase does not constitute legal property. AB2426 was signed into law last month and will be implemented starting next year — as a company that sells software licenses, GOG will have to comply with California law. It’s not clear whether GOG’s proposed exit logo would fit California’s legal requirements. It doesn’t mention licensing, and the claim that offline installers “can’t be taken from you” could be misconstrued as “you own the game,” which undermines the purpose of AB2426.
I agree with GOG’s proposed exit slogan — which is more of a marketing opportunity in the meme era than an actual suggestion — but I worry that consumers aren’t hearing the full picture. I’m also concerned that GOG will face some backlash when it inevitably sets up a more convenient, more Steam-like licensing statement.
GOG is a valuable asset in the world of computer gaming. Not only does it have a friendlier business model than the competition, but it’s also one of the best storefronts for older titles. While players should be reminded of GOG, they should also understand the limits of their digital purchases.
source: Gog via Windows Central
(tags for translation) video games