Full Breakdown
GOG Acquired by Co-Founder Michal Kicinski: A New Era for DRM-Free Gaming
1/3/2026, 10:06:40 PM
Transition of Ownership
Michal Kicinski, co-founder of both CD Projekt and GOG, has acquired 100% ownership of the GOG digital distribution platform from CD Projekt for PLN 90.7 million (approximately $25 million). This acquisition marks a significant shift for GOG, which has operated under CD Projekt for over 17 years. The sale allows CD Projekt to concentrate on developing its gaming franchises, including the highly anticipated sequels to *The Witcher* and *Cyberpunk 2077*.
Commitment to Core Values
Under Kicinski's leadership, GOG will continue its commitment to providing DRM-free games, ensuring that once players purchase a title, it remains theirs indefinitely. Kicinski emphasized the platform's foundational values: “GOG stands for freedom, independence, and genuine control.” He reiterated that the mission to revive classic games and maintain player ownership will remain central to GOG's operations. The platform will also continue to support a preservation program aimed at ensuring classic titles remain playable on modern systems.
Future Plans and Collaborations
Despite the change in ownership, GOG will maintain its relationship with CD Projekt. A distribution agreement has been signed, ensuring that upcoming titles from CD Projekt RED, including future installments of *The Witcher* and *Cyberpunk*, will still be available on the GOG platform. Kicinski stated, “I believe that CD Projekt, with its exceptional AAA games, will stand, as always, behind the GOG offering.”
Financial Stability and Market Position
GOG has reported financial stability, with a net profit of $478,000 for the period ending Q3 2025, following a previous loss. The platform's focus on preserving classic games and providing a curated marketplace has garnered positive community support, distinguishing it in a market increasingly dominated by subscription models and major players like Sony and Microsoft.
Criticism & Opposition
While the acquisition has been largely welcomed, concerns about the broader implications of consolidation in the gaming industry persist. Critics argue that the gaming landscape is becoming increasingly monopolized, with fewer independent platforms available for gamers. However, Kicinski's acquisition is seen as a move to reinforce GOG's independence and commitment to player rights.
Official Statements & Responses
Michal Nowakowski, Joint CEO of CD Projekt, expressed confidence in Kicinski's leadership, stating, “For a long time now, GOG has been operating independently. Now it’s going into very good hands.” Kicinski reassured users that their libraries and access to games would remain unchanged, emphasizing that GOG's DRM-free policies are now more central than ever.
What's Next
Looking ahead, GOG plans to undertake ambitious projects in 2026 and 2027, focusing on game preservation and community engagement. Kicinski has indicated that he is personally involved in developing new games with a retro spirit, which will debut on the platform in 2026.
Verbatim Quotes
- “From the very beginning, GOG has always been built on strong values and clear principles.” — Michal Kicinski, Co-Founder of GOG
- “GOG and Michal Kicinski are aligned by a shared belief that games should live forever,” — Maciej Golebiewski, Managing Director of GOG
- “With our focus now fully on an ambitious development roadmap and expanding our franchises with new high-quality products, we felt this was the right time for this move,” — Michal Nowakowski, Joint CEO of CD Projekt
This acquisition signals a renewed focus on GOG's original mission and a commitment to preserving the integrity of gaming ownership in an evolving industry landscape.
