GOG is facing significant challenges as Steam continues to expand its library, impacting GOG's sales and user base. New Blood CEO Dave Oshry highlighted the difficulties GOG encounters in maintaining its niche in the gaming market.
Steam's Expanding Library
Steam's decision to allow a wide range of classic games on its platform has diminished GOG's unique position. Oshry noted that Steam's move to include older games has reduced the need for GOG, which was previously known for its DRM-free offerings and classic game library. He mentioned that GOG now accounts for only 1–5% of sales compared to Steam, down from a previous 5–10%.
GOG's Unique Features
Despite the challenges, GOG still offers features that appeal to certain gamers. Oshry praised GOG's one-click mod installers and its hosting of projects like Fallout London. However, he pointed out that many players are unfamiliar with traditional modding techniques, which limits the appeal of these features.
Future Prospects
Oshry acknowledged GOG's new ownership and their efforts to improve the user experience, but he remains skeptical about its future. He expressed concerns about the platform's longevity, emphasizing the need for a larger user base to sustain its operations. While GOG offers classic games not available on Steam, such as Diablo 1 and Ultima Underworld, Oshry questioned the platform's ability to attract enough interest to remain viable.
