First1000: How GOG.com Acquired Its First 1000 Users
GOG.com gained its first 1000 users by reviving classic games, offering DRM-free downloads, and engaging with an active gaming community. Discover how this gamer-friendly platform carved out its own space in digital distribution.
In this First1000 feature, we delve into GOG.com—the platform that changed how gamers purchase, own, and play games by offering DRM-free digital downloads. Originally launched as “Good Old Games” in 2008, GOG.com was a bold venture by Polish video game company CD Projekt. By focusing on classic titles and a unique user-friendly philosophy, GOG.com quickly attracted a loyal following. Here’s the story of how they got their first 1000 users and eventually grew into one of the most beloved names in gaming.
The Founding of GOG.com
GOG.com was founded by Marcin Iwiński and Michał Kiciński, the same duo behind CD Projekt—the studio that would later bring us the acclaimed Witcher series. As gamers themselves, Iwiński and Kiciński noticed that many classic games were being lost to time due to evolving technology and digital rights management (DRM) restrictions. Their vision for GOG was simple but bold: to create a digital store where players could access DRM-free versions of older, hard-to-find games that worked on modern operating systems.
With the motto “Good Old Games,” GOG.com’s mission was not just about preserving older titles, but also about creating a gamer-friendly platform that allowed users to truly own the games they bought.
Ingenious Strategies to Acquire the First 1000 Users
- Reviving Classic Games: To create immediate interest, GOG focused on obtaining the rights to popular but largely unavailable classic PC games. Titles like Fallout, Duke Nukem 3D, and Heroes of Might and Magic were among the first games offered on the platform. This niche but passionate audience of retro gamers flocked to GOG for the chance to relive their favorites, helping GOG quickly reach its initial user base. The launch of these iconic titles became an organic marketing engine, with early users sharing their excitement on forums and online communities.
- Commitment to DRM-Free Games: Unlike other gaming platforms, GOG promised DRM-free downloads, meaning users truly owned the games they purchased and could play them offline anytime. This approach resonated strongly with the gaming community, particularly with those who valued consumer freedom and digital ownership. The DRM-free philosophy set GOG apart in a crowded market and was key in attracting dedicated users early on.
- Closed Beta with Fan-Driven Feedback: GOG started with a closed beta, inviting a small number of gamers to test the platform. By actively gathering feedback from these early users, GOG was able to improve the site, address bugs, and create a highly polished experience before the full launch. This sense of exclusivity and community collaboration fostered loyalty and turned the beta testers into GOG advocates, who eagerly invited friends to the platform once it officially launched.
- Accessible Pricing for Classic Games: GOG positioned itself as a highly affordable alternative to other gaming platforms by offering classic titles at budget-friendly prices. With many games priced around $5 or $10, GOG attracted users who might have been hesitant to purchase these games elsewhere due to high costs. The combination of low prices, a robust catalog of nostalgic favorites, and DRM-free downloads was irresistible to early users.
- Early Word-of-Mouth Marketing and Forums: GOG relied heavily on gaming communities and forums to spread the word. Platforms like Reddit, gaming blogs, and enthusiast forums were critical in helping GOG reach new users, as early adopters enthusiastically recommended GOG to like-minded gamers. By cultivating a fan-driven presence, GOG was able to grow its user base steadily without large marketing expenses.
GOG.com Today
Today, GOG.com is a leading digital distribution platform with a diverse library that spans from timeless classics to indie and modern titles. With millions of users worldwide, GOG has expanded its catalog beyond retro games and introduced features like GOG Galaxy, a launcher that allows cross-platform integration and a unified library experience. While GOG is a subsidiary of CD Projekt, it operates independently, remaining loyal to its DRM-free philosophy.
What is First1000?
First1000 is a series dedicated to exploring the growth stories of notable companies and how they attracted their first 1000 users. Each story sheds light on early strategies, challenges, and the visionary ideas that drove these companies from concept to prominence.