THQ Nordic has made an earnest request to Remedy Entertainment, urging them to reconsider their decision to release Alan Wake 2 exclusively in digital format. According to the piece by Eurogamer, the plea comes after Remedy Entertainment announced its intention to pursue a digital-only release for the highly anticipated sequel.
THQ Nordic, known for its support of physical releases and commitment to preserving gaming traditions, has expressed concerns over the decision to forgo a physical release for Alan Wake 2. Recognizing the significance of physical copies for many players and collectors, THQ Nordic hopes to sway Remedy Entertainment towards a more inclusive release strategy.
By releasing physical copies alongside the digital version, the company believes that Remedy Entertainment can cater to the preferences of a wider audience while acknowledging the importance of preserving gaming history.
Recently both PlayStation and Xbox are opting for consoles without a disc drive. PC, on the other hand, has given up on disc drives almost a decade ago. According to The Digital Entertainment and Retail Association (ERA), 89.5% of games sold in 2022 were digital downloads. Only 10.5% of copies sold were physical discs or cartridges. Digital sales make up nine out of every ten games sold in the UK.
Gamers’ choice – digital or physical?
The advantages of digital copies include convenience and accessibility. Digital games can be purchased and downloaded directly from online stores, eliminating the need to visit physical retail locations. They also allow for easy storage and access on gaming platforms or cloud services. Additionally, digital copies often provide the convenience of pre-loading games before release, enabling players to play immediately on launch day.
Physical copies have their own appeal. Some gamers enjoy the tactile experience of owning a physical game, complete with a box, artwork, and potentially additional physical goodies. Physical copies can be collected and displayed, giving players a sense of ownership and pride. They can also be resold or shared with others.
Certain factors influence the preference for physical copies. Some players have limited internet access or bandwidth, making it impractical or time-consuming to download large game files. Others appreciate the ability to lend or borrow physical copies from friends or family. Collectors often prioritize physical editions for their value and rarity.
There is no definitive answer as to whether gamers universally prefer one format over the other. Instead, it’s a matter of personal choice.
