Munzir HakimiTable of Contents
Here’s the Scoop
Video game preservation is becoming increasingly crucial as technology advances. While gaming platforms have multiplied, a staggering 87% of games released in the U.S. before 2010 are out of print, according to a 2023 study by the Video Game History Foundation. This alarming statistic highlights how poorly the industry has preserved its history compared to other art forms, such as silent films.
Fortunately, organizations like the Video Game History Foundation and Hit Save! are working hard to improve this situation. At a recent IndieDevDay event in Barcelona, Amanda Farough from Hit Save! shared valuable insights on why preserving video games is essential for future generations.
The Importance of Game Preservation
Games as Art
Games should be recognized as an art form deserving preservation for future enjoyment and education. They allow fans and aspiring developers to learn about game design while appreciating their cultural significance. Independent groups are actively reviving retro games through initiatives like interactive museums and homebrew projects.
Educational Value
Older games serve as vital educational tools for students entering game development fields. They provide insights into design concepts and best practices while helping avoid common pitfalls in the industry, such as crunch time or toxic work environments.
Cultural Significance
Games tell culturally rich stories that can foster empathy among players. Titles like Venba, Dandara, and Norco showcase diverse narratives that help players understand different cultures through interactive experiences.
Economic Benefits
Preservation also benefits businesses by enabling remasters and remakes based on original codebases. However, companies must balance this with their focus on live service models that often lead to unplayable titles when servers go offline.
Insights and Conclusions
Game preservation is not just about nostalgia; it’s about recognizing video games’ artistic value, educational potential, cultural significance, and economic impact. As technology evolves rapidly, we must advocate for preserving our gaming history so future generations can appreciate these unique experiences fully.
Reference
#####
- Video Game History Foundation Study – “A Study on Video Game Preservation”
- Hit Save! Organization - “About Hit Save!”
- IndieDevDay Event Coverage – “IndieDevDay 2024 Impressions”
Here’s the Scoop
The Importance of Game Preservation
Game preservation is crucial for maintaining the history and culture of video games. Organizations like Hit Save! play a vital role by archiving old games, magazines, and memorabilia. They also conduct interviews with developers to capture their insights and experiences. This effort ensures that valuable knowledge about game development is not lost over time.
Additionally, other organizations contribute significantly to this cause, such as the Video Game History Foundation and The Strong National Museum of Play. Together, they work towards preserving our gaming heritage for future generations.
How We Can All Help
While organizations are doing great work in game preservation, individuals can also make a difference. Developers should keep detailed records of their projects and consider donating old materials to preservation groups like Hit Save!. Publishers can help by archiving marketing materials and ensuring proper credits are given in games.
Everyday gamers can contribute too! Instead of discarding old games or magazines, consider donating them or using tools from Hit Save! to scan them digitally. Monetary donations also support these efforts significantly. Spreading awareness about the importance of game preservation is another impactful way everyone can help.
Insights and Conclusions
The Collective Effort in Preservation
Game preservation requires a collective effort from developers, publishers, and gamers alike. With an estimated three billion people playing video games worldwide, even small contributions from individuals can lead to significant advancements in preserving this art form.
By working together—donating items or sharing knowledge—we ensure that future generations will appreciate the rich history behind video gaming culture.
Reference
#####
- Hit Save! – Archiving Video Games
- Video Game History Foundation – Preserving Gaming Heritage
- The Strong National Museum of Play – Celebrating Play Through History
