Beginning January 30, the Video Game History Foundation (VGHF) is set to unveil its digital archives to the public. It’s an ambitious and ongoing project that promises to be one of the largest collections focused on the study and preservation of video game history. The archive will include over 1,500 issues of vintage game magazines that are no longer in print, along with promotional materials and various game development assets.
Since its inception in 2017, the VGHF has aimed to create a digital archive that goes beyond mere data collection. Rather than just scanning materials and uploading them to the Internet Archive, their focus is on creating a resource that enriches our understanding of the games themselves and becomes a valuable aid for researchers delving into video game history. The archive features a robust search function, allowing users to look up specific games, publishers, and authors, as well as more niche search terms. Ever wondered about the first mention of “Metroidvania”? You’ll soon be able to track it down in this archive. Recognizing that this is a work in progress, you also have the option to explore a trove of unprocessed materials from the VGHF.
Despite having an extensive library of playable titles in its physical archives, the VGHF faces restrictions due to the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA). Current anti-circumvention rules prevent remote access, which means that until the US Copyright Office grants an exception, the digital archives will only feature visual assets.
Just a quick reminder: the Video Game History Foundation operates as a non-profit organization, heavily depending on public donations. If you’re interested in supporting their vital work in preserving the rich history of gaming, take a moment to visit the VGHF website and find out how you can help.
