How the new generation of video game consoles have accelerated the need to preserve digital content – part 1

Abstract

Purpose

This two-part study aims to expose the challenges and establish the necessity of preserving digital content, with a focus on console video games.

Design/methodology/approach

Through a method of establishing the history of video game consoles, identifying the challenges presented by the format and addressing the current preservation efforts, this article serves as a brief retrospective of the issues and a guide to extending the conversation.

Findings

Representing a unique format, heavily reliant on advances in technological and industrial standards, console video games have experienced a demonstrated lack of preservation.

Originality/value

With special attention to the non-gamer, this is an introduction to the conversation and an invitation to lend expertise to not only an often overlooked area of popular culture, which is facing (and in some cases, has experienced) irretrievable loss of information, but also to other formats facing adjustment to the digital, always-online environment.

Citation

Cassidy, R. and McEniry, M. (2014), "How the new generation of video game consoles have accelerated the need to preserve digital content – part 1", Library Hi Tech News, Vol. 31 No. 9, pp. 17-20. https://doi.org/10.1108/LHTN-08-2014-0066