The world of video games is facing a crisis. According to a recent study, almost 90% of classic games released in the United States are "critically endangered", meaning they are at risk of being lost forever. This alarming statistic has sparked a sense of urgency among archivists, developers, and fans, who are working together to preserve video game history through innovative projects and initiatives.

One such initiative is the Video Game History Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and celebrating the history of video games. The foundation has launched several projects, including an interactive documentary series that tells the story of classic games through playable timelines and behind-the-scenes materials. Another project, Atari 50, is a playable tour through video game history that features over 90 classic games, as well as unreleased prototypes and historical content.

In addition to these efforts, fans are also playing a crucial role in preserving classic games. One fan, known as Hatok, spent three years recording and rendering every cutscene from Dissidia Final Fantasy Opera Omnia, a mobile game that was shut down in 2022. This dedication has ensured that the game's content will not be lost, even though the game itself is no longer playable.

Other initiatives include GOG's preservation program, which commits to maintaining the compatibility of classic games with modern systems, and Digital Eclipse's interactive documentary series, which tells the story of classic games through playable timelines and behind-the-scenes materials. These efforts are not only preserving classic games but also providing a new way for gamers to experience and appreciate them.

The importance of preserving video game history cannot be overstated. As Frank Cifaldi, founder and co-director of the Video Game History Foundation, notes, "If we don't do anything to save them, they might disappear altogether." The loss of classic games would not only be a cultural tragedy but also a significant loss for the gaming industry, which relies on the innovation and creativity of the past to inform its future.

In conclusion, the preservation of video game history is a critical issue that requires the collective efforts of archivists, developers, and fans. Through innovative projects and initiatives, we can ensure that classic games are preserved for future generations to enjoy and appreciate. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, it is essential that we remember and celebrate our past, lest we forget the games that have brought us to where we are today.