The PS6 will likely be purely digital, while the end of discs is a done deal from 2028 onwards. However, a recent discussion provides a strong counter-argument for discs, or at least for collectors.
Sony is likely going all-in on digital distribution for the PS6. A radical move that seems logical internally, but completely misses the mark with the true desires of hardcore fans. (From the podcast of...) Moore's Law is Dead A model that could save the physical box is now being discussed. Not as a mass-produced item for the bargain bin, but as an expensive premium product for collectors. Essentially, the vinyl record for gamers.
More expensive, but cooler: The boutique model
Sony's analysts only look at the raw download numbers. But Gen Z is buying physical copies again. The emotional value of ownership is underestimated. Nobody wants to give a piece of paper with a download code for Christmas. A physical box on the shelf has weight. That's why the podcast hosts suggest: Digital versions remain at $70, while the physical version is released as a deluxe edition for $90. Complete with a substantial booklet and extras.
This isn't a step backwards. It's clever marketing. Those who just want to play the game will simply download it. Those who love the brand will pay the extra for the physical experience. Sony would even earn more money per unit this way. A win-win situation and an ideal opportunity to turn the PR message back into something positive.
The problem with the hardware
The idea is currently thwarted by the reality of the PS6 rumors. If the console no longer comes standard with a disc drive, even the most beautiful disc won't help. Then, an elaborate box alone will have to be the deciding factor. You buy the premium box in a store, get the download code immediately, and a few extras. Sounds appealing and could appease the various camps.
Most publishers will only make this effort to a limited extent. They want control over the store and the fees. But the boutique model perfectly illustrates what the industry loses when it ignores collectors. Digital licenses are ephemeral. A physical box is permanent.
100€ for a disc, and then there are 10000 copies worldwide, so that there's a battle among the rich for the games.
So we're getting physical PS6 games that we can't use on the PS6 because there's no disc drive? Haha.
I would be very happy with any kind of version like that. I love collecting, and if there are no more physical games, a big part of the hobby dies for me. Not everyone has to understand, but that's how it is.
I don't need discs anymore.
Is this supposed to be the solution? "Please Sony, don't take away the physical versions. I'd even throw more money down your throat for that!"
Thanks, no! Then keep your PS6!
If this results in a complete physical version, I would be willing to pay the €90.
Eric Simon, I completely agree with you. But for €90, I'd really appreciate something of higher quality than just a disc in a plastic case. For starters, a small manual like the ones we had on the PS3 😃
Jan Röckendorf, that would be great, one of the reasons why I ordered some things from Limited Run.
Eric Simon, very good choice. I like them quite a bit too 😃
Absolutely. A nice manual/instruction guide with a backstory and some goodies, etc., should definitely be included.
If I buy a game, I want the original in the box, otherwise the whole thing is worthless.
This isn't going to work. I've lost interest in Sony. It's a shame about the upcoming Resident Evil, Silent Hill, and Final Fantasy games, which are sure to turn out the same way.
But whatever...
: )
I would even be there!
In principle, yes, but then it has to be done properly! If the disc is going to be a premium release at such an inflated price, then it absolutely must be guaranteed that the game is present in a clean, playable version on the disc (if necessary, a multi-disc release), and that Sony completely bans this coaster disc nonsense. Then, I think such a model would be a good compromise.
This overpriced nonsense wouldn't even be necessary if console manufacturers would just let consoles be what consoles are supposed to be: with a disc drive, end of story.