The new owner of digital game store GOG.com, Michał Kiciński, has sharply criticized Microsoft's Windows operating system in a recent interview, expressing surprise at its market dominance. GOG's managing director indicated that improving Linux support is now part of the company's strategy for 2026. This comes amid growing interest in Linux among PC gamers.
In an interview with PC Gamer published on January 15, 2026, Michał Kiciński, who acquired GOG.com from CD Projekt last month for PLN 90.7 million ($25.2 million), described Windows as 'such poor-quality software and product.' He expressed astonishment that it has maintained a large market share for so long, stating, 'I’m so surprised that it’s [spent] so many years on the market. I can’t believe it.'
Kiciński, who primarily uses a Mac, recounted his frustration with maintaining Windows computers for his parents, calling the experience 'unbelievable' and noting, 'I’m not surprised that people gravitate outside of the Windows ecosystem. It’s not the best ecosystem.' This criticism aligns with broader user complaints about Windows, including forced features and performance issues.
GOG's managing director, Maciej Gołębiewski, addressed plans for Linux support, confirming it as 'one of the things that we’ve put in our strategy for this year to look closer at.' He added, 'Certainly you will see this trend, and we also see that Linux is close to the hearts of our users, so we probably could do better on that front.' Currently, GOG lacks a native Linux client for its Galaxy platform, relying on third-party tools like Heroic or Lutris.
The remarks come as Linux gains traction in gaming, boosted by Valve's Steam Deck and Proton compatibility layer. Steam's December 2025 Hardware and Software Survey shows 94.2% of users on Windows, compared to 3.5% on Linux and 2.2% on macOS. GOG's shift could appeal to the growing segment of gamers seeking alternatives to Windows.
