this post was submitted on 06 Jul 2026
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Why is it ok for PC to be all digital? I don't remember the last time I've even seen a physical version of a PC game. Everything is through steam, While console it's not ok? I can't remember the last time I purchased a disc version for xbox.
Like I used to have the physical versions of Deadpool and both marvel ultimate alliances but I lost the discs in a move I wish I could purchase them digitally again but that's about the only downside I've encountered with digital only is some license rights gets a revoked
A few things.
One is that steam frequently has actually cheap games more readily than the console digital stores.
Another is that if I'm buying a digital entitlement anyway, I'll go with the ecosystem with the greatest track record for long term compatibility. A game purchased 20 years ago on steam is still generally playable in brand new system. A PlayStation game purchased then is not playable on a new Sony system. It is in fact only playable on PC through emulation, so PCs have been covering for console incompatibly.
Once upon a time, consoles brought some unique values. Easy to plug into TVs, consistent gamepad experience, and just turn on and play.
Nowadays PC operating systems and console operating systems act the same, tv output is just HDMI, gaming controllers are well supported on PCs... The last reason to bother with the console gaming was the physical media. So while sure, they can go digital only, but then why bother with a console at all? They've already lost every other advantage.
Then there's the fact that there may be 2 computers left out there with any type of disc ROM device.
Great points you make, I hope more people understand.
I only just removed (and saved) by bluray drive because I moved HW into a new case w/o a 5.25” bay. Still have a USB disc drive when needed and can always run a sata out the side temporarily.