System Shock 2, originally released back in 1999, will be available to download on GOG for $9.99 starting today.
The PC classic has had a number of rights issues for years that have complicated re-releases. System Shock 2 was co-developed by Irrational Games and Looking Glass studios, the latter of which closed its’ doors in May 2000. Following their closure, rights to the game passed from publisher Electronic Arts to Meadowbrook Insurance Group.
Ken Levine, the Lead Designer on the game, worked on a spiritual successor that ended up spawning the BioShock franchise (the third installment, BioShock Infinite, is scheduled for release on Mar. 26, 2013).
The re-release of System Shock 2 is being made compatible with Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8. Fans have been struggling to get the game working on modern machines and calling for a re-release like this. This release will allow them to return to the Rickenbacker and Von Braun spaceships.
