Last time I discussed the origins of digital distribution of gaming. A lot of the information comes from this article from Cheat Code Central a gaming journalism site. Digital distribution is becoming the new way of the future, as we switch from a digital copy to a file on your console of choice. Here are some of the biggest pros and cons of this new age of gaming.
The benefits of this era of digital distribution are largely based in convenience. Without leaving my chair, I can buy, download, and begin playing a game. No need to drive miles or wait for a store to open. This download also allows me to download and play it at anytime. These online stores don't close either and won't be constricted to one place. These games stick to your hard drive. Take it anywhere and you immediately have your entire gaming library anywhere you go. These downloads are also a small percent cheaper. This is due to the decreased cost of shipping and packaging. Another often overlooked advantage is the environmental impact. Downloads eliminate wasted transportation energy and packaging materials.
However, there are significant disadvantages to downloading games. Digital downloads are often less reliable than physical copies. Downloads often become corrupted or lost over time. Downloads also require an above average internet speed. The current generation of games are somewhere in the range of 5-10 gigabytes per game. This requires an often more advanced system for which to play on. Physical copies also have the upper hand in the resale ability. Physical copies can be resold to decrease the overall value spent on the game, a feature not available for digital downloads. Digital downloads also hurt the gaming market as they eliminate the middle man. Companies like Gamestop employ thousands of people that would be unemployed if the digital distribution market becomes more dominant.
Obviously there are clear drawbacks and benefits of the new era of digital distribution. It is up to us, the consumer, to decide which path we prefer before one dies out. Personally, I enjoy the physical copy of the game as I often buy games used and have a poor internet connection. On the other hand, digital distribution seems to have the upperhand. Which do you prefer and why?
Until next time,
David Rutner
I completely agree that a pro for digital distribution is convenience. In fact, it is solely for convenience. I will always opt for the digital copy of a game. They are more reliable, can be resold, and can be fixed. If there is a bug in the software of the game you download, it is difficult to fix (if not impossible). However, a scratch on a CD can be repaired.
ReplyDeleteI like your personal approach to your blog. Adding your own experiences and examples is a nice touch. I will say that the font used had my eyes straining! Other than that, your explanations coupled with examples makes your posts strong.
I personally find the digital copies are much more efficient and compliment the nature of video games. As explained on my blog, analysisVG.blogspot.com, the value of video games depreciates significantly in a short amount of time. Therefore, having a one-time purchase for consumption without the option of resale not only eliminates the issue of depreciated games, but prompts improvement for the ease of downloading video games.
ReplyDeleteI am glad that you mentioned the increased availability of downloading a game, because it definitely improves the quantity of sales. Looking forward to seeing more of your analysis!