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Linux is a family of open source Unix-like operating systems based on the Linux kernel, an operating system kernel first released on September 17, 1991 by Linus Torvalds. Linux is typically packaged in a Linux distribution (or distro for short).

Distributions include the Linux kernel and supporting system software and libraries, many of which are provided by the GNU Project. Many Linux distributions use the word "Linux" in their name, but the Free Software Foundation uses the name GNU/Linux to emphasize the importance of GNU software, causing some controversy.

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What if I paid for all my free software? (www.cynicusrex.com)

submitted 11 months ago by [email protected] to c/[email protected]

87 comments fedilink hide all child comments

I've always felt guilty by taking for granted the rare breed of virtuous humans that provide free excellent software without relying on advertising. Let's change that and pay, how much would I “lose” anyway?

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[–] [email protected] -3 points 11 months ago* (last edited 11 months ago) (2 children)

~~It is~~

EDIT: I'm wrong, I don't know what I was thinking, I misremembered hearing something apparently. Thank you for the corrections

[–] [email protected] 4 points 11 months ago

Care to provide a source? Because a quick internet search says "no, it's not". But I know that's been the case for like a decade. I don't know if something has changed recently.

[–] TheGrandNagus 4 points 11 months ago* (last edited 11 months ago) (1 children)

No.

The game's code base is proprietary, and Adams has stated he has no plans to release it into the open-source domain, citing the risk of them going into financial trouble.

He explained he would consider releasing its source if he could not maintain it anymore, seeing different game developers taking it up. He says that he does not mind any modifications as long as he is not put at financial risk.

It should be noted though, that if people followed OP in actually financially contributing to FOSS projects, then DF would likely have been made FOSS by now. His main fear is not having financial stability if he open sources his game.

[–] [email protected] -4 points 11 months ago* (last edited 11 months ago)

I don't really buy that considering how passionate people are about that game. Just because it's now free software doesn't mean you have to accept contributions.

A copyleft license would prevent copycats and a trademark would distinguish the original from other compiled binaries a la Firefox or Rust.

Counterpoint, Thunderbird received millions in donations when it was on the brink of death.

At least when he retires it will finally be available that's better than most games (esp. those built on nonfree game engines and assets)