Should you buy digital games or go physical?

Buy Digital Games or Physical Copies: Which is Best for You?

In an increasingly digital world, the debate rages on about whether you should rely on digital copies or stick to the old-school method of buying physical discs. We’ve got all the information you need in order to make an informed decision.

Why Buy Digital Games?

The convenience of digital games is a common reason cited by PC gamers, who highlight the ability to easily download and access games as a major factor. Saving physical space is another advantage of digital games mentioned by many, as it eliminates the need for shelves filled with game discs.

Many also note that digital games are often cheaper than their physical counterparts, with the ability to go on sale more frequently and at faster rates than physical copies. Sharing libraries with friends and family members is made easier too, as you don’t need physical discs to access your games.

Digital Games: Pros and Cons

Here are the advantages and disadvantages to buying digital games:

• The potential risk of games becoming unavailable is acknowledged by many, both for digital and physical copies.
• Many more games are requiring online connectivity these days, with Microsoft recognizing the importance of digital purchases by increasing the amount of games that enable online play with a subscription.
• The idea of companies wanting to retain customers within their ecosystem is mentioned, with the example of Microsoft wanting to ensure that its customers are tied to its store and are less likely to buy games from Steam.
• A brief discussion on the topic of online interactions and age restrictions in games takes place, with some expressing concerns about the ability for children to access adult content without restrictions on digital storefronts.
• However, others point out that the use of parental controls and restrictions on consoles typically address these concerns, with the Xbox having the additional benefit of digital games being cheaper.

Ultimately, the decision to buy digital or physical copies depends on your personal preferences and individual circumstances. There are pros and cons to both options, and they appeal to different types of gamers. While some may consider the lack of physical discs to be a disadvantage, others will appreciate the flexibility and cost savings that digital games can provide.

Take a look at our guide to the best PC games if you want something to play right away, or find out how to play the best PC games offline if your internet is down. We’ve also got a list of the best PC games on sale right now if you want to save a little cash.