Subset Games yanked FTL: Faster Than Light from Steam in 2020 due to licensing issues.
But the game's still available for purchase through online marketplaces.
This is just one example of how digital storefronts can turn against you at any moment.
Games Still Available on Retail
FTL: Faster Than Light and Other Games Still Available on Retail
Subset Games yanked FTL: Faster Than Light from Steam in 2020 due to licensing issues, but the game’s still available for purchase through online marketplaces. This is just one example of how games can be delisted from all digital stores, leaving gamers without access to their favorite titles.
The Swapper was delisted from GOG in 2022 thanks to poor sales. Facepalm Games lost faith in their own creation, but gamers who bought retail copies are still enjoying it.
Why Games Disappear from Digital Stores

Licenses expire or become too costly to maintain; poor sales mean a game just isn’t worth it anymore; tech issues pile up until developers can no longer keep them running. It’s all pretty messy, but one thing’s clear: you need control over what you own.
FTL: Faster Than Light’s licensing woes are a prime example of why developers might pull their titles from digital storefronts. The game’s still available on retail, but its digital version is no longer accessible to new players.
The Risks and Consequences of Digital Delisting
When games disappear from all digital stores, it can be frustrating for gamers who rely on these platforms. But there are ways to mitigate this risk and ensure access to your favorite titles. Buying a physical copy is one option, as it allows you to own the game outright and play it without relying on digital storefronts.
FTL: Faster Than Light’s story highlights the importance of owning your games. By purchasing a retail copy, you can continue playing the game even if it disappears from digital stores. This is especially important for critically acclaimed titles like FTL, which may be delisted due to licensing issues or poor sales.
Understanding the Impact on Gamers
Digital delisting can have serious consequences for gamers who rely on these platforms. Not only do they risk losing access to their favorite games, but they also face uncertainty about future updates and support. By buying a physical copy, you can ensure that you have access to the game even if it disappears from all digital platforms.
FTL: Faster Than Light’s case is a prime example of how digital delisting can affect gamers. The game’s licensing issues led to its removal from Steam, but its retail copies remain available for purchase. This highlights the importance of owning your games and having control over what you own.
The Benefits of Retail Copies
As more games disappear from digital stores, physical copies are becoming increasingly important. It’s not just about nostalgia; it’s a practical solution for gamers who value their access to their favorite titles. By buying a retail copy, you can ensure that you have access to the game even if it disappears from all digital platforms.
FTL: Faster Than Light and other games like The Swapper are great examples of why owning a physical copy is essential. These games may disappear from digital stores, but their retail copies will remain available for gamers who value their access to these titles.
The Importance of Owning Your Games
Games like FTL: Faster Than Light and The Swapper are often removed from digital storefronts due to licensing issues or poor sales. But by purchasing a physical copy, you can ensure that you have access to the game even if it disappears from all digital platforms.
This is especially important for critically acclaimed titles like FTL, which may be delisted due to licensing issues or poor sales. By owning a physical copy, you can continue playing the game without worrying about its availability on digital stores.
✅ Verdict
FTL: Faster Than Light, The Swapper, and other critically acclaimed titles prove that buying a physical copy is the only way to guarantee access. Don't get caught out when your favorite game disappears from digital storefronts.
