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DRM-free Steam alternative GOG Galaxy enters open beta
PC gaming is already a crowded field when it comes to digital distribution platforms, with several developers all pushing their own clients. Electronic Arts, Inc. has Origin, Ubisoft Entertainment S.A. has UPlay and, of course, Valve Corp. has Steam. While all of these platforms have different games and features, they do have one thing in common: DRM.
Warsaw-based GOG, Ltd., which is owned by Witcher developer CD Projekt Capital Group, has made a name for itself by selling DRM-free games at prices comparable to other game sellers, and now the Polish game company is introducing GOG Galaxy, a no-DRM answer to game clients like Steam.
“GOG Galaxy is as much about bringing the GOG.com experience up to modern par, as it is about offering completely new features and standards,” GOG wrote on its website. “We’re introducing quality-of-life features and the means to stay connected whether you’re in your browser, in the client, or in-game.
“Most importantly, we want to redefine what it means to use a gaming client. Most GOG Galaxy functionality is optional and toggleable, but we also want to introduce a few features that you haven’t seen before. Like rolling back patches.”
“Truly gamer friendly, DRM-free online gaming platform”
GOG Galaxy entered open beta today, and users can now sign up for access to test out the new client. The company says that games purchased through its website will not require GOG Galaxy to run, unlike games purchased on Steam or Origin.
While the new game client will allow users to install games directly, you will still be able to download DRM-free backup installers either through GOG Galaxy or through GOG.com.
Other GOG Galaxy features include:
- Multiplayer & matchmaking
- Achievements
- Game-time tracking & stats
- Crossplay (online play between GOG and Steam)
- Friends list
- Online chat
The client also allows users to toggle the features they want, and it will eventually include an in-game overlay, game invites and the ability to roll back patches.
GOG Galaxy is currently available for Windows and Mac OS X 10.8 or newer. Linux support is planned eventually, but GOG does not currently have a projected release date for a Linux version.
To participate in the open beta, you can sign up for access here.
Image credit: GOG.com
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