Xbox and Physical Format: Why We Need to Preserve This Option Despite Being Minority

Although the physical format loses weight, it still remains a valid alternative that should not disappear.

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Over the past few months, a concerning trend has become increasingly evident: Xbox games are abandoning the physical format. We saw it with Hellblade II, then with South Od Midnight, now with Gears of War: Reloaded or even The Outer Worlds 2, whose “disc” edition will be nothing more than a digital code in a box. The signal is clear, and it points to a decided transition towards the digital. But is it really positive to completely renounce the physical format?

Xbox Series X continues to be sold with a disc reader, and many players value being able to acquire, preserve, or collect their games. Although physical format sales figures have dropped, that doesn’t mean we should ignore those who still prefer it. In fact, the more options there are for the consumer, the better. The problem isn’t that we’re betting on the digital, but that we’re eliminating the disc alternative entirely.

The physical format on Xbox: an option that must remain alive

Beyond collecting, the physical format offers advantages like the possibility of reselling games, sharing them easily, or avoiding massive downloads. Even in times of constant updates, having the base disc can be useful if servers or stores disappear in the future. In countries with slow or limited connections, it still remains an important way to access video games.

1. Freedom of choice for the consumer

Eliminating the physical format reduces options. Not all players prefer the digital; keeping both alternatives ensures that each user can choose how to play.

2. Accessibility without the need for permanent connection

In areas with limited, expensive, or unreliable internet, the physical format allows playing without relying on extensive downloads or constant patches.

3. Conservation and preservation of video games

A physical game can be preserved indefinitely. If digital stores close or a title is removed, the disc remains usable.

4. Resale and lending

With the physical format, you can sell your games, lend them, or give them away. With the digital, the game is tied to your account and is not transferable.

5. Collectible value

Many players collect physical editions. They are part of the cultural legacy of video games and a tangible way to enjoy their history.

6. Avoid digital distribution monopolies

Dependence on digital stores gives total control to platforms over prices, availability, or usage conditions, without alternatives.

7. Games playable even if they are digitally removed

There are games that disappear from digital stores due to licenses or policy changes. If you have them on disc, you’ll still be able to play them.

8. Not all users update or download patches

Although the physical format no longer comes “complete” in many cases, it still remains an installable base. Not all players install every patch.

9. Sentimental and aesthetic value

The physical format has an emotional component: covers, boxes, manuals, shelves. For many, this is part of the experience.

10. Xbox Series X includes a disc reader

The console is still being sold with a disc reader. Stopping the release of physical games contradicts that value proposition and harms those who bet on that model.

Losing the physical format is not just a technical change, it’s also a way to reduce user freedom. In an ecosystem like Xbox, which has always stood out for its openness, it would be a mistake to limit access to only the digital. It’s not about nostalgia, but about preserving the right to choose. And as long as the console with a disc reader is still being sold, the physical format deserves to continue having its space.