According to a study by the Video Game History Foundation and the Software

 


According to a study by the Video Game History Foundation and the Software Preservation Network, a mere 13% of classic video games are currently available for commercial purchase.

 This percentage is even lower than that of U.S. silent films.

The study examined 4,000 historical games and found that even popular titles like "Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots" are not available without owning outdated hardware or resorting to emulation.

  • It found that a staggering 87% of video games developed before 2010 are inaccessible on modern platforms.
  • While availability was low across all platforms and time periods, games for the 1982-era Commodore 64 system were less accessible compared to titles for the PlayStation 2 or Game Boy.
    • 4.5% of Commodore 64 titles were found to be available.
    • Despite its popularity, only 12% of PS2 games were accessible.

Unlike books, movies, and music, outdated copyright laws prevent libraries and other official archives from preserving and providing access to classic video games, according to the study.

  • The research advocates for legal exemptions so that libraries can provide access to classic games.

Source: Video Game History Foundation, in partnership with the Software Preservation Network

   

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