Metadata and video games emulation: an effective bond to achieve authentic preservation?

Abstract

Purpose The aim of this paper is to rethink the concept of significant properties in relationship to video game emulation. Design/methodology/approach In this paper, video games are examined as complex digital objects, that is digital objects that are constituted by multiple layers that are interconnected with other objects. Starting from the assumption that metadata are fundamental to individuate the authenticity and accuracy of a complex digital object, the research is based on the analysis of the most recent frameworks that propose a substantial use of metadata to perform gaming emulation. Findings Technical metadata are being used within emulation frameworks to describe digital environments and objects. Although metadata cannot be considered a definitive solution for preserving significant properties of video games, they should be used in a more extensive way across frameworks. Originality/value This paper tries to provide insights on video game properties that can help to refine the debate on emulation.

Memory Void: Digital Games Preservation in Portugal

“…One of the main reasons is the technological obsolescence. Over the years, the physical media on which the obsolete games are stored can no longer be read and decoded; and, in addition to the progressive increase of technological incompatibility between hardware, these games also undergo a high degree of actual physical degradation [Barwick et al, 2011;Carta, 2017;Guay-Bélanger, 2021].…”