GOG stands out in the digital game distribution world by doing something most competitors won’t: selling games without DRM (Digital Rights Management). That means when you buy a game on GOG, it’s yours — no online checks, no launcher required, no restrictions on installation. You can download the installer and keep it forever.
Originally launched as Good Old Games in 2008, the platform was created by CD Projekt (the Polish company behind The Witcher series and Cyberpunk 2077) to make classic PC games available on modern systems. Early on, it focused on retro titles from the ’90s and 2000s, wrapping them in compatibility fixes so they’d run on current hardware without hassle.
Over the years, GOG expanded well beyond retro games. It now sells new releases alongside its classic catalog and operates the GOG Galaxy client — an optional launcher that can unify game libraries from GOG, Steam, Epic, and other platforms into a single interface.
The platform’s DRM-free philosophy has earned it a devoted fanbase among PC gamers who value ownership and privacy. GOG doesn’t track what you play or require an internet connection to access your games. This consumer-first approach has made it the preferred store for many privacy-conscious gamers.
Headquartered in Warsaw, Poland, GOG operates as a subsidiary of CD Projekt Group. While it’s much smaller than Steam or Epic in terms of market share, its curated catalog and unique positioning have kept it relevant. GOG regularly runs major sales events and offers a 30-day refund policy on all purchases.
