GOG leaves CD Projekt, gets acquired by one of its co-founders instead

GOG, the alternative video games store front from CD Projekt, is splitting off from the Polish game publisher. This comes as CD Projekt and GOG co-founder Michał Kiciński acquires 100% of the DRM-free games digital distribution platform.

As such, GOG will now operate as its own entity, separate from CD Projekt. According to GOG, this is a way to accelerate what makes GOG unique. They continue to pledge DRM-free games, meaning you can continue to purchase games from GOG and run them offline if you wish, or copy the installation files onto your own drive so that you can install them again on any other computer. This of course is in contrast to other game distribution platforms such as Epic or Steam, which require you to sign into your account first to access your games.

“First of all, DRM-free is more central to GOG than ever. Your library stays yours to enjoy: same access, same offline installers, same sense of ownership. Your data stays with GOG, and GOG GALAXY remains optional.

GOG will remain  independent in its operations. We will continue building a platform that’s ethical, non-predatory, and made to last, while helping indie developers reach the world. We’re also committed to giving the community a stronger voice, with new initiatives planned for 2026,” – GOG

On top of that, GOG reaffirmed its relationship with CD Projekt despite the split. CD Projekt Red games such as Cyberpunk 2077 and The Witcher titles will continue to be on GOG, with all upcoming titles also being released on the platform.

As for Kiciński, he is purchasing 100% of the shares in GOG for PLN 90.7million (~RM 10.7million). All of that is fully funded too without any sale of his own CD Projekt shares.

“From the very beginning, GOG has always been built on strong values and clear principles. When Marcin Iwiński and I came up with the idea for GOG, the vision was simple: bring classic games back to players and ensure that once you buy a game, it truly belongs to you — forever,” – Michał Kiciński

Kiciński also added that GOG will continue not only be the best place to get CD Projekt’s games but also classic video games too as part of GOG’s game preservation ethos. You can read their full statements on the acquisition on the GOG as well as CD Projekt websites.

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