What's Happening?
SEGA's release of Yakuza 0 Director's Cut has sparked controversy due to its impact on game preservation. The Director's Cut, set to release on December 8, will replace the original 2015 version on most
digital storefronts, making the original game inaccessible for many players. This move has upset fans and preservationists who argue that it undermines the original's storytelling with new, non-optional cutscenes. The decision to remove the original version from systems incompatible with the new release, such as PS4 and Xbox One, further complicates access for players.
Why It's Important?
This development highlights ongoing issues in the video game industry regarding the preservation of digital content. The removal of the original Yakuza 0 from digital storefronts raises concerns about the accessibility of older games and the industry's approach to maintaining gaming history. This situation underscores the need for better preservation practices and policies to ensure that classic games remain available to future generations. The backlash from fans and preservationists may prompt SEGA and other companies to reconsider their strategies for re-releasing and preserving older titles.
