GOG has introduced a new initiative for its GOG Preservation Program, offering fans the chance to recreate the iconic 'big box' PC game packaging of the 1990s. In partnership with Big Box Collection, a fan-run archive of 3D scans of physical game packaging, GOG is now providing printable versions of these classic boxes.
This revival taps into a renewed interest in physical media, particularly among PC gamers. For years, consumers have shifted towards digital purchases, but a growing sentiment favors tangible collections. This trend is underscored by industry shifts, such as Sony's announced discontinuation of physical PlayStation games and a reported 58% revenue jump for CD sales between 2025 and 2026.
The GOG Preservation Program now includes scans for "Star Trek: 25th Anniversary" and "Armikrog," alongside existing titles like "Descent," "Hitman: Codename 47," and "Myst." GOG describes the offering as flat, printable versions of box art that users can cut, fold, and glue at home, providing a "proper papercraft project" for those who miss displaying their game collections on shelves.
While GOG is not producing physical discs, its DRM-free nature makes it uniquely positioned for this endeavor. Players can download their purchased games and burn them to CDs or DVDs, allowing for a complete archival experience on physical shelves, aligning with the growing desire for tangible ownership in the face of increasingly ephemeral digital rights and evolving platform policies.