Former Rockstar Games developer Joe Rubino recently stated that the departure of physical game discs from the market was “long overdue.” He believes that eliminating discs and their associated production processes can lower game publishing costs, and that the industry needs to adapt to changes in technology and consumer habits.
Rubino previously worked on titles such as Grand Theft Auto V, Red Dead Redemption, and Max Payne 3. When discussing the future of game development and publishing, he cited cost as the primary driver for full digitalization: disc manufacturing, packaging, and physical distribution all add to publishing expenses, and eliminating these steps can help publishers reduce costs.
Rubino also acknowledged that buying physical games offers a unique experience. He recalled queuing up to buy games in the past, noting that the process of bringing a new title home and inserting it into the console still holds special meaning. However, in his view, the gaming industry has entered a different phase, and even if the savings per game are modest, they could have a tangible impact over time.
This viewpoint diverges from the stance of some players and developers. Physical editions allow players to buy used games, resell or lend titles, and build personal collections. Digital versions, on the other hand, may be subject to restrictions imposed by storefronts, servers, licensing agreements, and user accounts; if a game is delisted or related services are shut down, long-term access and preservation could be affected.
Sony has announced that it will cease production of physical PlayStation game discs starting January 2028. Data released by Sony in July showed that between March and June, physical products accounted for 18% of purchases in its gaming business, while digital purchases made up 82%, indicating a clear majority for digital distribution.
Microsoft has taken a different approach. In August, Xbox announced a feature that allows eligible owners of physical copies of Xbox One and Xbox Series X games to claim corresponding digital licenses, offering the convenience of digital versions while preserving some of the value of existing physical game libraries.