We’re officially bringing back the original interface for the Bob The Cow Digital Disc website. For those who weren't around for the initial launch, this version of the site was the standard from 1998 until it was overhauled for a more modern look in 2001.
While the main site has stayed updated with current web standards, we wanted to restore the original 1998 version for anyone who prefers the older aesthetic. It’s a literal piece of the site's history that we’ve managed to get running again on modern servers.
The restored site includes the original "BobPlayer 98" interface. Back then, streaming required a significant amount of buffering due to dial-up speeds, so we’ve kept the 5-10 second loading delay to maintain the accuracy of how the service actually functioned in the late 90s. We’ve also kept the system requirements and layout exactly as they appeared during the original 1998–2001 run. The only changes we've made are adding HTTPS encryption—something the old internet lacked but is crucial today.
Even though the interface is over 25 years old, the back-end is still connected to our current database. This means any digital code you have, including modern codes from recent DVD purchases, will work perfectly. Once you redeem a code, it will show up in your "Private Library" just like it does on the modern site.
In addition to the redemption portal, we have also brought back the original 1998 Online Store page. This legacy version of the shop features the classic table-based catalog and the original checkout process. Unfortunately, unlike the redemption site, the store does not allow real purchases. Our shop is on an entirely different system today from what it was back then. You can still add items to your cart and checkout, but no real purchases will be processed.
We’re happy to have this version of the site back online. The service was revolutionary when it first launched, and still helps many movie fans watch their movies anywhere, anytime. It’s a reminder of where the service started and how far digital media has come since the era of 56k modems.
You can access the classic portal and store through the link below.
https://90s.redeem.bobthecow.org
The original Bob The Cow Digital Disc 1998 site returns!