Folks considering a physical copy of the upcoming remake of 2001’s Gothic might want to think twice if they care about preservation. The game’s publisher, THQ, has revealed that players will need to download a day-one patch to play the physical version.
On May 22, Does It Play, a Twitter account that tracks video game releases, shared that the Gothic remake would require an internet connection. This info came to light when some copies were sent out early. Players who tried to start the game without the patch encountered an error insisting on an internet connection.
In response to the buzz, THQ clarified that a constant online connection isn’t necessary, but the game does need a one-time download. According to their tweet, “To achieve that, we sent out copies earlier.” They confirmed the patch is about 5 GB and that after it’s installed, the game can be played offline.
This brings up a crucial point in gaming preservation. While the game won’t need internet access all the time, the need for an initial patch could lead to issues down the line. In 20 years, if that patch is no longer available, physical copies might not function at all. These once-promising discs might end up as nothing more than coasters.
This situation isn’t unique. Many games today rely on patches after launch, making future playability uncertain. A study by the Videogame History Foundation found that over 80% of games released today require internet access for updates, which complicates archival efforts.
As we approach the June 5 launch of the Gothic Remake on consoles and PC, it raises important questions about the future of physical gaming. Will future copies include necessary updates to avoid this issue? Gaming fans are hoping for a solution that honors the rich history of beloved titles like Gothic.
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Gothic,Gothic Remake,Physical Games,THQ
