Remedy Entertainment’s long-awaited sequel of 2010’s Alan Wake, Alan Wake 2, is easily one of the best games of 2023. With its engaging gameplay, stunning visuals, and intriguing storyline, the game has managed to become a fan favorite. However, some fear that the Remedy has made a mistake by skipping physical release on any platform. Although the studio explained the valid reason behind this, it seems like other companies have started to normalize this idea.
Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II is all set to release in May 2024 on Windows and Xbox Series X/S and it has been confirmed that the game will cost $49.99 and will not have a physical edition. This trend has worried gamers across the world. While some may argue that digital versions are better, some gamers still prefer discs, primarily because discs have a resale value and tend to go down in price much faster than digital versions.
Fans blame Alan Wake 2 for normalizing the digital-only release
As we enter 2024, there’s a hard truth that gamers need to accept: a digital-only future is coming. For many years, gamers only saw a physical release of video games only but that changed in the mid-2000s. Now, many gamers prefer buying their games digitally for their own reasons, and due to this, companies have slowly started shifting towards a digital-only future.
In 2023, Remedy Entertainment released its highly anticipated Alan Wake 2, but it was surprising when it was announced that the game would only see a digital-only release. In an FAQ, it was explained that a disc release was skipped so the price of the game could stay at $60 instead of $70. Sure, this might’ve helped but this idea doesn’t cater to those who still prefer discs. Alan Wake 2 may have kicked off this trend that is now slowly being adopted by many other companies.
What’s the problem with digital-only games?
Not everyone around the world has a super-fast internet connection that allows gamers to install huge video games. With a physical copy, one can install games on the console without an internet connection. Another problem with digital-only games is that they can’t be traded in or resold.
Also read: Alan Wake 2’s The Game Awards Achievements Highlight the Game’s Greatest Strengths
This has been a topic of discussion for quite some time now, especially with the announcement of Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II getting a digital-only release. While a physical release benefits the gamers, a digital-only release benefits the game studios as it allows them to make changes over time.
Take Cyberpunk 2077 for example, the game was a total disaster upon release, but it eventually recovered through post-launch patches. Even if the majority of gamers prefer digital-only, companies should still continue physical releases for those who prefer it.
