Lost in Cult Launches Editions Label to Preserve Indie Games

Lost in Cult, renowned for its beautifully crafted books about video games, has expanded its creative vision by launching a new publishing label called Editions. This label is dedicated to preserving indie games by releasing them in physical formats that highlight their artistic and cultural significance.

Editions aims to celebrate indie games much like the Criterion Collection does for classic films, combining the game itself with rich supplementary materials. Each physical release includes a fold-out poster, a sticker, a numbered authenticity card, a 40-page essay, and developer interviews, all wrapped in elegant cover art.

To ensure that these games remain playable without relying on downloads or internet connections, Lost in Cult partners with DoesItPlay?, a group specializing in game preservation. This collaboration guarantees that each physical edition can be run directly from its media, preserving the gaming experience authentically.

The initial lineup includes three indie games: Immortality, The Excavation of Hob’s Barrow, and Thank Goodness You’re Here. Editions plans to announce a new title every month starting in July, with preorders available for Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5 versions. PS5 owners can purchase a discounted bundle of the first run, including an exclusive third title.

While shipments may take up to six months due to the high-quality production standards, the Editions label promises a collector’s experience that honors the artistry and legacy of indie games. This initiative reflects a growing trend to preserve digital culture through tangible media, offering gamers and collectors alike a meaningful connection to their favorite titles.

The Importance of Indie Game Preservation

Indie games often push creative boundaries and explore unique storytelling techniques, making their preservation vital for cultural and artistic reasons. Physical editions like those from Editions provide a way to archive these works beyond the ephemeral nature of digital storefronts and server dependencies.

By combining physical media with in-depth developer insights and essays, Editions not only preserves the games themselves but also documents their creative processes and cultural impact. This approach enriches the player’s experience and supports the broader recognition of indie games as an important art form.