The GOG PC Preservation Program has added two Star Ocean titles, Star Ocean: The Second Story R and Star Ocean: The Divine Force, making them available for purchase DRM-free on the GOG storefront. These releases are part of GOG’s ongoing commitment to ensure classic PC games remain functional on modern operating systems, offering ongoing maintenance and tech support for these titles.
Key Facts
The GOG PC Preservation Program has welcomed Star Ocean: The Second Story R and Star Ocean: The Divine Force, both now available DRM-free. These games are confirmed to be compatible with Windows 11 and will receive lifetime maintenance to ensure continued functionality. Players will also have access to tech support. Both titles support controllers, cloud saves, and achievements. A Digital Deluxe Edition of The Divine Force is also available, including a digital soundtrack and in-game items.
The Method
GOG’s Preservation Program involves taking classic PC games and ensuring their compatibility with modern operating systems like Windows 11. This process includes using updated or quality-tested builds to fix bugs that could prevent smooth gameplay.
GOG commits its own resources to this restoration, even if original developers are no longer active. The program aims to keep iconic titles playable for years to come, offering them DRM-free with dedicated tech support. Games included in the program will feature a “Preserved by GOG” stamp and a “Preservation Log” detailing any enhancements or changes made to the game builds.
Best Loadout or Settings
| Feature | Star Ocean: The Second Story R | Star Ocean: The Divine Force |
|---|---|---|
| Operating System Compatibility | Windows 11 | Windows 11 |
| DRM-Free | Yes | Yes |
| Lifetime Maintenance | Yes | Yes |
| Tech Support | Yes | Yes |
| Controller Support | Yes | Yes |
| Cloud Saves | Yes | Yes |
| Achievements | Yes | Yes |
| Digital Deluxe Edition | No | Yes (includes soundtrack and in-game items) |
Common Mistakes
A common mistake when discussing these releases might be to assume they are entirely new ports developed from scratch. However, the GOG Preservation Program focuses on making existing PC versions playable on modern systems. Another potential misunderstanding is regarding the platform availability; while Star Ocean: The Second Story R is available on multiple platforms, its inclusion in GOG’s program specifically pertains to its PC version. Furthermore, confusion can arise regarding the Switch version of Star Ocean: The Second Story R, which required a full repurchase for Switch owners, unlike the GOG PC release which benefits from the preservation initiative.
Alternatives
For players seeking the Star Ocean experience, several alternatives exist beyond the GOG PC Preservation Program releases. Star Ocean: The Second Story R is also available on the Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, and PlayStation 5.
Its original iterations were found on the PSP, PS3, PS4, and Vita. Similarly, Star Ocean: The Divine Force can be found on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X, in addition to its PC version on GOG. These alternative platforms offer different ways to play the games, though they may not always be DRM-free or benefit from GOG’s specific preservation efforts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the GOG PC Preservation Program?
The GOG PC Preservation Program is an initiative by GOG.com to ensure classic PC games remain playable on modern operating systems. GOG commits resources to maintain compatibility and offers DRM-free versions with tech support.
Are these Star Ocean games DRM-free?
Yes, both Star Ocean: The Second Story R and Star Ocean: The Divine Force are available DRM-free on GOG as part of the Preservation Program.
What operating systems are supported?
Both games are confirmed to be compatible with Windows 11 and will receive ongoing maintenance to ensure they continue to function on modern systems.
What is included in the Digital Deluxe Edition of The Divine Force?
The Digital Deluxe Edition of Star Ocean: The Divine Force includes a digital copy of the game’s soundtrack and several in-game add-on items such as Andvaranaut’s Ring and the Holy Sigrdrifa.
Will these games receive updates?
GOG commits to lifetime maintenance for these titles, ensuring they remain functional on modern systems. They also provide tech support for players.
