GOG's Independent Future: DRM-Free, Linux Focus, No Head-on Steam Battle | Quick Digest
GOG, now independent under co-founder Michał Kiciński, reaffirms its DRM-free commitment and pivots to enhanced Linux support, while not aiming for direct competition with Steam's AAA market. This strategic shift follows Kiciński's strong criticism of Windows 11's quality.
GOG is now independent, acquired by co-founder Michał Kiciński.
Reaffirms strong commitment to DRM-free gaming philosophy.
Not competing directly with Steam for AAA titles.
Focusing on game preservation, indie, and retro games.
Plans strategic pivot towards enhanced Linux support in 2026.
Owner Michał Kiciński criticized Windows 11 as 'poor-quality software'.
GOG, the digital game storefront, has recently undergone a significant ownership change, with co-founder Michał Kiciński acquiring the company from CD Projekt in December 2025. This move renders GOG an independent entity, allowing CD Projekt to concentrate solely on its AAA game development, such as The Witcher and Cyberpunk franchises.
Under Kiciński's leadership, GOG is set to double down on its core values, particularly its steadfast commitment to DRM-free gaming, which is now considered 'more central than ever' to its mission. Kiciński has openly criticized the prevailing industry trend of Digital Rights Management, labeling such corporate decisions as 'plain stupid'.
Regarding competition with industry giant Steam, GOG's new strategy explicitly avoids a head-on battle for AAA title sales. Instead, the platform aims to differentiate itself by focusing on its unique strengths: game preservation, a curated selection of indie, and retro games. Kiciński emphasizes providing a superior service within these niche segments rather than volume.
A notable strategic shift for 2026 is GOG's enhanced embrace of Linux support, now designated a 'strategic priority'. This pivot is partly fueled by widespread frustration with Windows 11, which Kiciński himself lambasted as 'unbelievable... poor-quality software'. Furthermore, GOG is exploring opportunities in game publishing, particularly by acquiring and remastering classic intellectual properties, a direction previously constrained under CD Projekt's ownership.
Overall, the news indicates a renewed focus for GOG on its foundational principles and a strategic move to solidify its position in the digital distribution market by catering to a specific, appreciative audience.
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