In a time when digital formats appear to be taking over, Phil Spencer, the CEO of Microsoft Gaming, emphasizes the significance of physical games for Xbox. Despite the increasing popularity of digital downloads, Spencer assures that Xbox’s approach isn’t solely reliant on digital distribution.
Although Xbox Game Pass represents a shift away from physical games, Spencer remains forward-thinking. Ultimately, many fans and nostalgists prefer having a physical disc for their game rather than relying solely on digital servers.
Xbox’s Commitment to Physical Media
Lately, there have been inquiries regarding Microsoft’s future intentions regarding offering Xbox games on physical discs. The exclusive digital release of a major AAA game in 2024, “Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II,” and rumors about the potential closure of the division responsible for distributing games on discs have sparked concerns within the gaming community.
However, in an interview with Game File, Spencer has been unequivocal in asserting that Microsoft is a “supporter of physical media,” despite acknowledging that most Xbox players lean towards purchasing their games digitally.
Xbox Strategy and Physical Format
“However, I will say that our strategy is not reliant on a complete shift to digital… And eliminating physical formats, that’s not a strategic move for us,” Spencer remarked. Addressing reports of divisions closing within Microsoft, he clarified that this was part of a restructuring of the gaming division, stating:
“We have teams dedicated to physical commerce, including the sale of games in retail stores. That was the focus of the team’s actions. It wasn’t about eliminating capability.”
The Future of Disc Gaming
Microsoft already offers a console, the Xbox Series S, which doesn’t include a disc drive. Looking ahead, Spencer acknowledges that the disc-based Xbox Series consoles have become one of the last consumer electronic devices to feature a disc drive. He continued by saying:
“And this is a real problem, just in terms of the number of manufacturers building units and the associated cost. And when you think about the costs that we are going to put into a console, and since you have fewer suppliers and fewer buyers, the unit cost does have an impact.”
This might concern those who value the flexibility of buying games on discs, as it enables them to play those titles even if digital versions become unavailable.
