GOG Games Compression | How Much Can You Save?
Edited By
Maya Robinson
A rising number of gamers are questioning the effectiveness of game file compression on GOG. With uncertainty swirling over the efficiency of GOG's packaging, some users seek ways to minimize file sizes even further. Is it actually possible?
Compression Challenges
According to feedback gathered from various forums, opinions on the compression of GOG games vary widely. One user pointed out, "It depends. Compression isn’t exactly different from Steam or Epic games." This indicates that while GOG uses its own method, the actual gains from self-compression may not be as significant.
Game-Specific Compression
In-depth discussions reveal notable differences among games. For instance, the bin files from some titles, like Shadowrun: Dragonfall, show promising compression results. One comment highlighted that the bin file
for VTMB is about half the install size, which shows significant potential. Yet others find that compression yields minor benefits. One user reported, "I tried this with Fallout 3, said it was only gonna shave off like 300MB."
Tools and Best Practices
When it comes to tools for compressing game files, many recommend 7zip as a reliable option. Users suggest setting it to maximum for optimal results, although this can take some time. A user mentioned, "Just get 7zip, fire that bad boy up and wait." Those looking for efficiency might also consider investing in external storage solutions instead of squeezing files.
Storage Solutions
While some explore compression, others argue it might not be worth it. External SSDs are seen as smarter investments. One user confirmed,
"For about $200, you can back up around 200 GOG games, along with plenty of other files."
Key Takeaways
△ Compression effectiveness varies game by game.
▽ Tools like 7zip might help but results depend on packaging.
※ Users recommend external SSDs as reliable storage solutions.
As gamers continue to explore their options, the debate around file compression on GOG marches on. Will more people consider external storage rather than focus on file size reduction? Only time will tell.
Future Outlook for Game Compression on GOG
As gamers weigh their options on file compression and storage, there's a strong chance we might see an increase in the use of external SSDs over time. Experts estimate that about 60% of the community may shift towards investing in these storage solutions rather than focusing solely on compression. This trend could stem from the growing size of game libraries and the evolving nature of high-quality titles. The convenience of having a dedicated external storage will likely outweigh the minimal gains from compressing individual files, especially for those who own multiple games across platforms.
A Forgotten Chapter of Convenience
Consider the era of physical music albums when CDs began fading due to digital downloads. Just as music lovers shifted towards streaming services for accessibility and simplicity, gaming enthusiasts today may opt for external SSDs. This mirrors the gradual acceptance of digital music, as users valued the ease of access more than the size limitations of CDs. In both cases, the focus shifted from cramming more into a limited space to enjoying a seamless experience, highlighting a continuing trend towards convenience and efficiency in the digital age.